Millions of children participate in sports. To ensure safe participation during practice and competition, the AAP encourages youth to receive a preparticipation physical evaluation (sport physical) as part of their routine health supervision visit. The information on these pages can help pediatricians understand the impact sports physicals have on children's lives.
The PPE, also known as the sports physical, ideally will be conducted in the medical home during the health supervision appointment by the athlete’s primary care provider. If this is not possible, the PPE should be conducted at least 6 weeks before the first preseason practice to allow time to evaluate the athlete and treat any medical conditions found during the visit.
The frequency of a PPE is determined by the state. Learn more about your state PPE law .
The Preparticipation Physical Evaluation (PPE) Monograph, 5th Edition serves as a resource for medical providers to keep athletes safe and healthy while participating in sports. It provides helpful guidance on the proper timing, setting and structure of the evaluation to improve the health and well being of athletes. Find it on shopAAP .
The PPE was developed by the American Academy of Family Physicians, American Academy of Pediatrics, American College of Sports Medicine, American Medical Society for Sports Medicine, American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine and the American Osteopathic Academy of Sports Medicine. It is also endorsed by the National Athletic Trainers’ Association and the National Federation of State High School Associations.
Depending on state law, the PPE examination is conducted by an MD, DO, nurse practitioner or physician assistant with clinical training to evaluate and determine medical eligibility of the athlete on a broad range of health issues.
