What is a pre-participation physical exam (PPE)?
A PPE is a medical exam done prior to the start of an athletic season. The exam is meant to identify medical and orthopedic conditions that may require further evaluation and treatment before participation, including physical therapy for existing injuries.

Why is it important?
Depending on the type of medical testing available during the PPEs, athletes with medical conditions may be identified so that they can be referred for further treatment. Common medical conditions that may be identified during a PPE include anemia, amenorrhea, eating disorders, asthma, and hypertension.

Identification of recent musculoskeletal injuries that have not healed is another reason for the PPE. Athletes who have sustained knee, ankle, shoulder or any other injuries can be identified during the PPE. The athlete can be screened for joint range of motion, strength deficits and joint instability. If any deficits are present, the athlete can either be referred to a physical therapist or to a certified athletic trainer for specific rehabilitation protocols so that the athlete can reduce the risk of further injury to the area. Additionally, certain factors that may predispose an athlete to injury in the future can be identified and dealt with before it causes an injury down the line.

The PPE is also an opportunity to identify athletes who have a history of concussion and who may still be experiencing post-concussion symptoms. Identifying these athletes and referring them for further medical treatment is one way to reduce the incidence of second impact syndrome, another cause of sudden death in young athletes.

Adolescents with at-risk behaviors may also be identified during the PPE. This is an opportunity for the athlete to speak candidly with a physician providing a window of opportunity for the athlete to seek help if he/she chooses. Even during a PPE, the medical personnel have a duty to maintain confidentiality between themselves and their patients. This can provide a safe place for athletes to discuss concerns that they may have with their own health.

By Aaron Armstrong

o Aaron Armstrong holds a bachelor of science degree from Temple University in Philadelphia, PA in athletic training and has been a certified athletic trainer since 2012. He also earned a master of physical education degree in athletic administration from Idaho State University in Pocatello, ID. He can be contacted at Elite Sports Medicine at the Sports, Spine and Rehabilitation Center at 327-0708.

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