The Sport Pre-participation Physical Examination (PPE)
Today... Purpose of the physical examination Goals Parts of the examination The exam format
Purpose of the physical exam Prevention of injury - to identify areas that have an increased risk for injury Baseline information
Demographics High schools NCAA requirements
Goals To provide an objective, sport-specific musculoskeletal profile of athletic fitness To delineate negative information that prohibits, modifies or delays participation To delineate positive information to decrease injury risk and increase performance
Goals To produce a reproducible record for subsequent examinations To provide a base for sport-specific conditioning
Personal Information Records information Signatures, if necessary Address & phone Emergency contact Health insurance Health status
Exam Gathers negative information used to decrease chance of catastrophic injuries - given upon entrance into athletic program
Exam Sections - medical history - medical exam - appropriate lab work
Exam Questionnaire(s) - personal medical history - orthopedic history - family medical history Reviewed at check-in
Physical Components Physical measures Cardiovascular Vision General medical –Heart & lung –Internal/abdominal –ENT Orthopedic Neurological Flexibility Lab work
Medical Exam Orthopedic - posture evaluation - leg length discrepancy - joint stability - deficiencies from trauma/surgery
Administration Options Individual –Family physician –HMO Group/military fashion
Exam Results Medical referral Clearance Clearance with supervision Disqualification
Legal Considerations Information is confidential –HIPAA –FERPA –Release of medical information
Legal Considerations Disqualifying conditions “The team physician has the final responsibility to determine when a student- athlete is removed or withheld from participation due to an injury, illness, or pregnancy.”
Legal Considerations Other conditions predispose to risk If participation NOT recommended: - outline the risks - outline the policy regarding situation - discuss lesser risks & program