A sports physical or pre–participation physical examination (PPE) is an important step toward safe participation in organized sports. The purpose of the PPE is not to disqualify or exclude an athlete from competition, but rather to attempt to identify those conditions that may place an athlete at increased risk and affect safe participation in organized sports. PPEs should include the following:
1. Family and Medical History
2. Physical Examination
a. general health screening
b. cardiovascular screening
c. neurologic screening
d. orthopedic screening
3. Review of Medication Use
4. Nutritional Assessment
5. Heat and Hydration-Related Illness Risk Factors
6. Mental Health Considerations
The Minnesota State High School League (MSHSL) requires athletes to have a PPE prior to any participation in practices or games. An updated PPE is required every 3 calendar years.
The summertime is a great time to take care of completing your PPE prior to the beginning of the fall athletics season. A number of healthcare organizations offer low cost and sometimes free PPEs during this time. Please do not wait until the last minute to complete this important safety requirement.
A copy of the MSHSL PPE form can be found HERE.
Dustin Eslinger, MA, LAT, ATC
Athletic Trainer
Physical Therapy Consultants, Inc.
PTC_therapy July 24th, 2019
Posted In: General
Tags: MSHSL