Medical Examination of Athletes: Terminology and Types

Contents

Introduction
Current Medical Examination of Athletes (CMEA)
Stage or Periodic Medical Examination of Athletes (PMEA)

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Medical examination of athletes is a comprehensive assessment of an athlete’s functional state using non-invasive instrumental methods, including laboratory diagnostics. This assessment takes into account the evaluation of the status of the most directly and indirectly limiting the physical performance of various body systems (cardiovascular, respiratory, hematopoietic, nervous, muscular, digestive, musculoskeletal, etc.), as well as different organs and systems, depending on the specifics of the training activity (e.g., visual analysis for marksmen, balance assessment for participants in complex coordination sports, etc.). Based on this examination, a conclusion is issued regarding the athlete’s health status and their ability to participate in the training process.

Current Medical Examination of Athletes (CMEA)

Conducted by specialists in therapeutic physical culture and sports medicine. Regardless of the specifics of the training loads, it evaluates the functional state of the central nervous system, autonomic nervous system, cardiovascular system, musculoskeletal system, and other indicators depending on the type of loads. It is a comprehensive examination aimed at obtaining complete and comprehensive information about the athlete’s health, the functional state of the body, and performance indicators. Includes anthropometry, in-depth laboratory diagnostics (general and biochemical blood analysis, immunological research, hormonal profile), clinical urine analysis, ECG at rest and during physical exertion, functional tests, PWC170 test, chest organ radiography for athletes over 14 years old, as well as medical examinations (otorhinolaryngologist, neurologist, ophthalmologist, orthopedic traumatologist, obstetrician-gynecologist, dentist, sports medicine physician). Additional types of research and consultations by specialists may be conducted as needed. High-level athletes’ medical examinations are carried out at least twice a year, with periodic examinations 3–4 times a year.

Stage or Periodic Medical Examination of Athletes (PMEA)

Conducted at various stages of sports training and may also be conducted after short non-serious illnesses. During competitions, it can be performed in a shortened form, taking into account the necessary requirements. Depending on the specific sport and the individual characteristics of the athlete, a PMEA program is developed, and examinations are conducted at least four times a year, depending on the number of training stages within the annual cycle. Specialists in therapeutic physical culture and sports medicine determine the scope and level of examination based on medical documentation, the athlete’s health status, and recommendations from the coach and team physician.