SPORTS MEDICINE
A pre-participation exam, commonly known as a sports physical, is required for all student athletes. In the United States, most pre-participation exams for student athletes ages 6 to 24 are performed by family physicians, pediatricians, and sports medicine physicians. While it may seem a chore to obtain a new exam each year, the pre-participation exam is intended to reduce the risk of adverse outcomes without unduly restricting athlete participation.
Furthermore, the pre-participation exam is often the first encounter with the health care system for adolescents and serves as the sole opportunity for general health screening, risk factor evaluation, and health education.
Through a thorough history and physical exam, the physician can uncover a large portion of the athlete’s potential risk for injury or illness. The pre-participation exam covers multiple domains, including the cardiovascular, respiratory, neurologic, reproductive, and musculoskeletal systems.
It is important to note that while most student athletes will have a normal pre-participation exam, there are times when further evaluation is necessary, such as an electrocardiogram for heart murmur, physical rehabilitation of an injury, or a visit to specialist. For this reason, it is recommended that the pre-participation exam take place at least 6 weeks prior to start of the athletic season. The bottom line is ensuring the safety of our athletes.
Ortho Rhode Island will be holding pre-participation exams for student athletes on the following dates:
Ortho RI-Wakefield:
Wednesday June 12th 4-7pm
Ten High Street
Wakefield RI 02879
Ortho RI – Warwick:
Tuesday, June 25th 4-7pm
120 Centerville Rd.
Warwick 02886
Ortho RI -- Providence:
Wednesday July 24th 4-7pm
285 Promenade Street
Providence, RI 02908
Appointments are encouraged. Please call (401) 459-4008 x129 to schedule for all locations.
For more information about PPEs and to fill out the history form please visit:
http://www.riil.org/index.php/sports-medicine/
or
https://www.riil.org/page/3503
