Sports physicals are exams that are performed on student-athletes planning to participate in a sport within the upcoming year. These exams are required by the State of South Carolina to ensure that student-athletes are healthy to compete.
Physical evaluations performed after April 1 are valid for the entire following school year, per South Carolina guidelines. All of the components of a sports physical are included in your child’s yearly check-up. If your child’s yearly check-up takes place before April 1, a separate sports physical visit after April 1 will be necessary to comply with South Carolina state requirements. If your child’s yearly checkup takes place after April 1, the form can usually, but not always, be completed based on the wellness exam findings. Please contact the office at if you have any questions.
What is a Sports Physical?
A sports physical is also referred to as a preparticipation physical examination (PPE). This medical exam is conducted before the start of an athletic season in order to identify if it is safe for an athlete to compete in the sport that they wish to. During the exam, the physician will examine the athlete and through a series of questions and observations and will analyze their medical history in order determine if there are any conditions that may heighten the athlete’s risk of injury, illness, or other health complications.
The physician will complete the required physical form and if permitted, will sign the form allowing the student athlete to participate the in sport.
The Importance of Sports Physicals and Why They Are Required
To participate in a scholastic sport and in most cases, a club sport in the State of South Carolina, It is required that student-athletes receive a sports physical. The Palmetto Pediatrics of the Lowcountry examining physician will combine the results of their examination with your athlete’s medical history in order to identify any existing or possible conditions that may put your athlete at a higher risk for developing an injury or an illness during their athletic season. The physician will also consider the sport that your athlete wishes to play when evaluating them in order to determine if any possible health concerns may arise or cause complications.
Please print out the appropriate sports physical form below and complete basic items where indicated. The physician will complete the evaluation.