Getting a pre-participation sports physical exam is not just a good idea for student athletes – it’s a requirement. The Missouri High School Activities Association mandates that student athletes get an annual sports physical to compete in junior high or high school sports. Other neighboring states have that same requirement. Pre-participation sports exams are performed either by a student’s personal physician or by another professional medical provider. Exams can be completed at a medical office, designated sports clinic or an athlete’s school.

Medical providers check for several conditions:

•    Conditions that require treatment or a plan prior to sports participation
•    Orthopaedic conditions that need physical therapy or other treatment
•    Asthma, hypertension, anemia, etc.
•    Potentially life-threatening conditions that could occur during any sport
•    History of concussions to determine if student is still experiencing post-concussion symptoms

Parents need to provide the medical staff with the athlete’s medical history, as well as the family’s medical history before the physical exam takes place. After the medical provider has reviewed the student’s and family’s medical history, the physical exam will follow. Based on the family medical history, a student commenting on shortness of breath or heart palpitations during the exam will be referred to a specialist for further testing to pick up on potential heart diseases. Any prescriptions or over-the-counter medications the student is currently taking should be reported during the exam.

The physical exam usually includes:

•    Weight and height measurements
•    Blood pressure screening
•    Heart and lung checks
•    Ear, nose and throat examinations
•    Basic hearing and vision tests
•    Joint movement and muscle strength
•    Spinal alignment and posture

Sports physicals should be completed at least six to eight weeks before the student’s sports season begins. This allows time for additional testing and evaluation, if necessary. Parents have the right to choose which type of sports physical is right for their child. If an athlete has a medical condition or history of injury, the parent may choose the route of a more thorough physical exam through the family’s personal physician.

Although a sports physical exam may identify health problems not associated with physical activity, it should not be used to replace medical care or annual routine checkups with primary care physicians. Students are still encouraged to visit their primary care physician for regular checkups and for any conditions that need further medical treatment.

Pre-participation physical exams can help determine if a particular sport is safe for an individual student. Most students are cleared for sports participation through sports physical exams. Students requiring follow-up with a specialist often resume normal activities after ensuring they are able to safely participate in sports.

School sports play an important role in helping student athletes develop skills and learn values that can be used throughout their entire lives. Providing a sports physical exam is the first step to a season filled with learning, spirit and teamwork.

Robert Lieurance, MD, completed his medical education at the University of Arizona College of Medicine. He is board certified in orthopaedic surgery and fellowship-trained in sports medicine. Dr. Lieurance serves as the official orthopaedic team physician for Missouri Southern State University and Joplin High School.