SPORTS PHYSICALS & PRE-PARTICIPATION EXAMS
Sports physicals, also called pre-participation exams (PPE), help determine whether it’s safe for a child or adolescent to participate in physical activity.
Below are the areas that will be reviewed with you and your child in order to assess their ability to participate in the sport of their choice:
- Medical history
- Injury history
- Cardiovascular history
- Vital signs
- General Exam
Getting a PPE once a year before the school year begins is recommended.
The sports physical should be completed about 6 weeks prior to the athletic season to allow enough time to follow up on any health issues that may be identified during the physical. Even if the physical doesn’t detect any health problems, you should seek medical attention if new health problems emerge during the sports season.
** Please note: If you are having chest pain, breathing difficulties, or significant trauma please call 911 or go to your nearest emergency department.
