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Today, we’re diving into a topic that’s essential for athletes of all ages but often misunderstood—the pre-participation physical exam, or PPE. Whether you’re gearing up for a new sports season or supporting athletes as a parent, coach, or provider, understanding what goes into this process is critical.

We’re joined by Dr. Kelly Ryan, a leading sports medicine physician, and Jenna Page, an experienced athletic trainer who plays a key role in these exams from the front lines. Together, they’ll walk us through what a PPE actually looks like, why it’s far more than just a form to fill out, and how it plays a crucial role in keeping athletes safe and ready to perform.

We’ll talk about the medical red flags providers look for, how athletic trainers and physicians collaborate to make smart clearance decisions, and why these exams are a vital opportunity to catch underlying health concerns before they become bigger issues.

Clearance isn’t just about checking off a box—it’s about making informed decisions that protect the athlete’s health while supporting their goals. So whether you're on the sidelines or in the clinic, this conversation will give you a deeper understanding of how we keep athletes not only in the game—but thriving in it.

Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: PTPodcast@medstar.net with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!