Billy Joel has had several medical issues over the years, but his most recent one is likely his most concerning. He has received a diagnosis of Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH). There is a chance the issue is reversible, but only with time and surgery.
Joel appears to have had the surgery that requires a shunt to be placed, but he must also undergo a particular kind of physical therapy. That has forced him to cancel all of his scheduled upcoming live shows. These were set to take place in the United States and Europe.
Fans will be refunded their money in most cases of the cancelled shows, but that is probably the least of their concerns. The focus, of course, is on Joel's long-term health. NPH affects roughly 0.2 percent of people in their 70s, and Joel is 76.
Billy Joel forced to cancel upcoming concerts after medical diagnosis
According to the Cleveland Clinic, NPH is "a condition that happens when cerebrospinal fluid builds up inside your skull and presses on your brain. This condition is most likely in people over 65. It’s often treatable and sometimes even reversible. Treating this condition involves surgery to implant a shunt to drain excess fluid from the inside of your skull."
What is not known is how long Joel has had the issue, but one hopes that he found out soon after he began having symptoms. These could include a lack of balance, memory problems, and other cognitive problems. Joel did have a fall in a concert earlier in 2025, but quickly got up and continued the show.
Of course, at this point, there is no timeframe on when or if Joel will ever perform again. The medical advice he has received says that he cannot perform while undergoing physical therapy, but there is no word on what happens after that. Even doctors might not know until they see how he responds to treatment.
Joel has not released a new studio album of original pop or rock songs since 1993's River of Dreams, and there is no indication that he plans to return to the studio soon.