SO DR. STOWERS . . . NO CONCUSSION?

11.25.12

FSU star quarterback EJ Manuel returned to the FSU-UF game Saturday a few minutes after getting laid out on a helmet to helmet hit by Gator linebacker Antonio Morrison. Manuel only missed four offensive plays as millions of fans watched the nationally televised game waiting to see if FSU medical staff would diagnose a concussion. Apparently not, with team doctor Kris Stowers, M.D. seemingly taking the lead on examining Manuel. FSU’s Head Athletic Trainer Jake Pfeil was the next closest medical staff member during the sideline exam. Although Dr. Stowers did appear to discuss his diagnosis with Pfeil, the trainer did not appear to  be an active participant in the exam. Is there a concussion protocol in the NCAA? Did FSU and Dr. Stowers perform any type of concussion test after the injury and if so, what test? Does Dr. Stowers incur any type of risk or potential liability resulting from a possible misdiagnosis? Interestingly enough, Head Athletic Trainer Jake Pfeil came to FSU in 2004 as an Insurance/Risk Coordinator. According to the FSU Baseball website, “Pfeil was the liaison between the various medical providers used by Florida State, insurance companies and the sports medicine department.”

QB Manuel fumbled and lost the ball on the hit, but made no attempt to get the ball back as he laid momentarily motionless face down on the ground.