Musculoskeletal Preparticipation Physical Evaluation—Does it Lead to Decreased Musculoskeletal Morbidity?

A preparticipation physical evaluation (PPE) is a requirement that many athletes must complete before participating in organized sports. Currently, the traditional musculoskeletal (MSK) portion of the PPE lacks robust evidence to support its ability to accurately predict those at greater risk for MSK injury. Functional movement testing has garnered attention for potential use in the PPE having shown some promise for greater sensitivity at identifying those at greater risk for MSK injury. Despite the widespread use of MSK PPE screening to identify athletes at greater risk for MSK injury, there is no significant evidence demonstrating that subsequent interventions result in decreased MSK injury.