Sport Physical for Children and Adolescents
I must clarify that the evidence provided does not address the specific components of a preparticipation sports physical examination (PPE). The available guidelines focus on physical activity recommendations and youth sports participation benefits rather than the medical screening process itself.
What the Evidence Does NOT Cover
The provided studies discuss:
- General physical activity guidelines for youth 1
- Benefits and risks of youth sports participation 1
- Injury prevention strategies in general terms 2
None of these sources provide specific guidance on the medical history, physical examination components, or screening protocols that constitute a preparticipation sports physical.
General Medicine Knowledge: Standard PPE Components
Based on standard medical practice (not from the provided evidence), a comprehensive sports physical typically includes:
Medical History Assessment
- Cardiovascular screening: Family history of sudden cardiac death, personal history of syncope, chest pain with exertion, heart murmurs
- Musculoskeletal evaluation: Previous injuries, current pain or limitations, joint instability
- Neurological history: Concussion history, seizure disorders
- Respiratory conditions: Asthma, exercise-induced bronchospasm
- General health: Chronic illnesses, medications, allergies
Physical Examination
- Vital signs: Blood pressure, heart rate, height, weight, BMI
- Cardiovascular exam: Heart auscultation for murmurs, peripheral pulses
- Musculoskeletal screening: Range of motion, joint stability, strength assessment
- Vision screening: Visual acuity
- Skin examination: Infectious conditions, rashes
Injury Prevention Context from Evidence
The American College of Sports Medicine emphasizes that up to half of all youth sports injuries are preventable through attention to physical deficits, training methods, safety equipment, and psychological health 2. This underscores why the preparticipation examination should identify modifiable risk factors.
Critical Gap
The evidence provided does not contain authoritative guidelines (such as from the American Academy of Pediatrics, American Heart Association, or similar organizations) that specifically outline preparticipation physical examination protocols. To provide evidence-based recommendations on the actual components and procedures of a sports physical, guidelines specifically addressing PPE would be required.