The Pre-participation Physical Exam

The pre-participation physical exam (PPE) should be performed by a physician, physician assistant, or nurse practioner with training and medical skills to recognize heart disease and orthopedic conditions of concern for the activity in which the athlete wishes to participate.

The PPE is one of the most critical aspects of injury prevention in amateur sports programs.

• The exam should take place at least six weeks prior to the beginning of preseason to allow for time for correction or rehabilitation of identified problems.
• Conditions should be documented which have potential implications for an athlete’s safety during practice or games. Conditions such as visual impairment, diabetes, hypertension, asthma, severe allergies, sickle cell disease, history of heat illness, history of concussion, use of medications, use of steroids, symptoms of eating disorders, etc.
• If the athlete is considering a contact or collision sport, the exam should include an assessment of previous head injury with special attention given to a concussion history. The athlete should be given a base line cognitive test assessment such as IMPACT® Test, which is available through Saint Vincent Sports Medicine.
• Cardiac conditions are the most common cause of sudden death in athletes under the age of 35. These conditions are usually caused by congenital heart disease.
• An orthopedic exam should be given. A history of previous muscle injuries or broken bones should be documented. Anatomical imbalances, limited or excessive range of motion, and structural defects need to be addressed.
• The history should include a list of medication that the athlete is using.
• Female athletes should include a menstrual history and information about previous pregnancies.
• Athletes with a history of asthma should be given a peak flow test.

For information about pre-participation physical exams, speak to your child’s coach, your physician or a specialist at Saint Vincent Sports Medicine by calling 814-866-3466.

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.