Athlete Preparticipation Physical Evaluation

Preparticipation evaluations (PPE) are both a traditional and legal requirement by many governing bodies for sport. The ideal goal of the PPE is safe participation in sport for athletes. This article provides an overview of common PPE elements and current best practice recommendations. Descriptions of every possible examination are published elsewhere and are beyond the intent of this article. Additional considerations for transgender, masters athletes, and Special Olympians are also outside the scope of this review, but are well covered in The Preparticipation Physical Evaluation, fifth edition monograph.

Automated summary

Preparticipation evaluations are required by many governing bodies for sport to ensure safe participation for athletes. This article discusses common PPE elements and best practice recommendations, but does not provide detailed descriptions of specific examinations. Considerations for transgender, masters athletes, and Special Olympians are outside the scope of this article.