Nashville Predators captain and star defenseman Roman Josi has been diagnosed with Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) after experiencing persistent headaches following a concussion sustained in late February. The diagnosis adds a new layer to Josi's health situation after an impactful hit from Florida Panthers forward Sam Bennett on February 25th, which sidelined him for the remainder of the 2024-25 season.
POTS is a condition that affects blood flow, causing an abnormally rapid increase in heart rate when transitioning from a lying or sitting position to standing. According to the Cleveland Clinic, this can lead to a variety of symptoms including dizziness, lightheadedness, fatigue, and headaches – symptoms Josi had been experiencing for weeks. While POTS is more commonly diagnosed in women between the ages of 15 and 50, it can affect men, particularly those with certain risk factors, including recent head injuries.
In an interview with Swiss news outlet Blick, Josi revealed that he initially feared he had exacerbated his previous concussion, especially as he continued to suffer from headaches. A thorough medical evaluation in Denver ruled out further head trauma but confirmed the POTS diagnosis. He mentioned having insecurities regarding potential brain damage, which were quelled after the official diagnosis of POTS. Josi has only had one confirmed concussion at the NHL level before this, back in the 2013-14 season.
Despite the challenges, the 35-year-old Josi is optimistic about his recovery and return to the ice. He has been undergoing intensive therapy for the past eight weeks, including taking beta blockers to manage his symptoms. "Over the last eight weeks, I have undergone intensive therapy, which also included taking beta blockers. I've been feeling much better since then," Josi stated. "I've regained the belief that I'll be 100 percent fit again and can fully attack with Nashville and the Swiss national team next winter.”
Josi's diagnosis may also explain fainting episodes he experienced as a child, as his mother recalled, though they were never medically addressed at the time. The confirmation of POTS has provided clarity and allowed Josi to begin targeted treatment to alleviate his symptoms. He has already resumed light on-ice practice, signaling positive progress in his recovery.
The Predators captain is determined to be ready for the 2025-26 NHL season and is also aiming to represent Switzerland at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milano Cortina. Before his season was cut short, Josi played 53 games, scoring nine goals and 29 assists for a total of 38 points. While this output was slightly below his usual high standards, his career achievements have already solidified his place as one of the best players in Nashville Predators history. He currently leads all Predators skaters in games played (962), assists (534), points (724), and average time on ice (24:52). He is also approaching his 1,000th NHL game, a milestone he is expected to reach in the upcoming season.
Although there is no known cure for POTS, various treatments and lifestyle adjustments can help manage the symptoms. Josi's proactive approach to therapy and medication offers hope that he will be able to effectively manage the condition and continue his NHL career at a high level.
