Why Sports Physicals?

Other term: "preparticipation evaluation". We want to be as sure as possible that the athlete is not at high risk from his or her sport. If we ask you to get some additional evaluation, it is not to annoy you but to make sure that you don't have excessive risk.

What is Done?

History

The most important part of the pre-participation evaluation. Red flags include:

Family history of sudden death, especially in a young person.
History of the patient fainting during or after exercise.
Chest pain during or after exercise.
Serious shortness of breath with exercise.

Many chronic illnesses are not automatic reasons to keep the person out of athletics. Sometimes a person is qualified for some sports but not others.

Examination

Besides the usual examination, we will pay some extra attention to the joints and muscles. We usually ask some questions related to your specific sport. For males, we have to do a hernia check. Sorry. Can't skip it.

Lab tests?

Rarely or never needed. The Ohio State Athletic Association uses a uniform form which we complete after the examination is done.

Lab tests?

An article from the European Heart Journal recommends that all athletes having a sports physical have an electrocardiogram. This is not standard practice in the U.S. Your insurance might not pay for the electrocardiogram. We will offer one to all our young athletes.

Family history

In most cases, family history refers to a first-degree relative's health problem. A parent, A brother or sister, or a child.