A thorough yet efficient exam identifies most problems in school athletes.
A complete medical history, preferably from the student and a parent, will reveal approximately 75% of problems affecting initial athletic participation. For asymptomatic athletes with no previous injuries, a 90-second screening musculoskeletal test will detect 90% of significant musculoskeletal injuries. A routine screening need not include noninvasive cardiac testing or laboratory tests such as urinalysis, blood count, chemistry profile, lipid profile, ferritin level, or spirometry.
Carek
Peter J
PJ
Department of Family Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston 29406, USA. carekpj@musc.edu
Mainous
Arch G
AG
D016757:Death, Sudden, Cardiac / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000209:etiology; D006801:Humans; D008487:Medical History Taking / Q000379:methods; D009141:Musculoskeletal System / Q000293:injuries; D010808:Physical Examination / Q000379:methods; D018570:Risk Assessment; D012574:Schools; D013177:Sports; D014481:United States; D014947:Wounds and Injuries / Q000175:diagnosis