Sports Physical

Also called: Preparticipation Physical Evaluation, PPE

Playing sports helps keep kids fit and is a fun way for them to socialize and make friends. Before getting out on the court or field though, kids need a sports physical.

Overview

What Is a Sports Physical?

A sports physical exam is a checkup before the sports season starts to help make sure that your child can play safely. Active kids who don’t play organized sports should also get regular sports physicals.

The three main parts of a sports physical are: the medical history, the physical exam, and the doctor’s clearance (the OK to play a sport).

What's Included in a Sports Physical?

Medical History

For this part of the exam, you’ll be asked about your child’s medical history. The questions are usually on a form that you’ll fill out with your child before the doctor sees you. Take time to answer them carefully. The doctor will ask follow-up questions based on your answers.

Things you’ll be asked about include:

• serious illnesses (like early heart disease) among family members
• medical problems and illnesses, like asthma, diabetes, COVID-19, or sickle cell trait
• previous hospitalizations or surgeries
• allergies (to insect bites, for example)
• past injuries (including concussions, sprains, or broken bones)
• whether your child has ever passed out, felt dizzy, had chest pain, or had trouble breathing during exercise
• medicines (including over-the-counter medicines, dietary supplements, and prescription medicines)

The doctor will also ask about testicle pain or periods. Other questions will cover smoking and vaping, alcohol, drugs, diet pills, and performance-enhancing supplements, including steroids.

Physical Exam

During the physical part of the exam, the doctor will usually check your child’s:

• height and weight
• blood pressure and pulse (heart rate and rhythm)
• vision
• heart, lungs, abdomen (belly), private parts, skin, ears, nose, and throat
• posture, joints, strength, and flexibility

Heart Check

Kids may also need anelectrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) to check the heart as part of the clearance for sports. This test measures the electricity of the heart and can find some heart conditions that don’t show up on the history and physical exam. This is important because some heart problems don’t have symptoms you’d notice.

Why Is a Sports Physical Important?

A sports physical helps athletes find out about and deal with health problems that might interfere with their participation in a sport. For example, if your child has frequent asthma attacks, the doctor can adjust the medicine to make it easier to breathe when running.

The doctor may also have training tips or recommend exercises or physical therapy to help prevent injuries.

An annual sports physical is helpful for all kids, even if they’re not on a sports team that requires it. The physical can find hidden risks (like heart problems) or unhealthy behaviors — such as relying on energy drinks or having an eating disorder. It can also show how well your child’s muscles are working.

Where Can My Child Get a Sports Physical?

Most kids should go to their regular doctor's office to get a sports physical. Your doctor knows your child and your child’s health history best.

Some kids may get sports physicals at school, which are often set up as "stations" in the gym. Each station is staffed by a medical professional who gives a specific part of the physical exam.

When Should My Child Have a Sports Physical?

Schedule sports physicals at least 6 weeks before the sports season starts. If your doctor finds a problem, this should leave enough time for tests or treatment, if needed.

Sports physicals are usually good for at least 1 year. If there are any changes in health history, like a new injury or new symptoms (such as chest pain or shortness of breath), your child may need to see the doctor before being allowed to play. Let the gym teacher or coach know if there are any changes in your child’s health.

What if the Sports Physical Finds a Health Problem?

The goal of the sports physical is to make sure kids are safe while playing sports, not to stop them from playing. It's very unlikely that your child will be disqualified from playing sports. For most athletes, everything checks out OK and the doctor will fill out and sign the form. Some kids may be referred to a specialist for an exam and need other testing to make sure it’s safe to play.

Rarely, a doctor may find that kids shouldn’t play their sport. That doesn’t mean they can’t play any sports at all, though. They may just have to play something different. For example, someone who has had a lot of concussions might not be able to play football, but tennis may be OK.

Does My Child Still Need a Regular Physical Too?

The sports physical focuses on your child’s health and safety while playing a sport. Regular checkups are still important for your child’s overall health and well-being. If you plan ahead, the doctor may be able to do both types of exams during one visit. When scheduling the annual visit, mention that your child needs a sports physical and a regular checkup so your doctor can set aside time to do both.

Just as professional sports stars need medical care to keep them playing their best, so do young athletes. Help give your kids the same edge as the pros by making sure they get their sports physicals.