Spring is here, and that means it is time for spring sports! That also means it is time for sports physicals. Sports physicals are a wonderful way determine if there is anything that will hinder your child’s ability to participate in the sport of their choice.
According to WebMD, a sports physical is:
“A sports physical — also known as a pre-participation physical examination — is a check-up to assess a teen’s health and fitness as it relates to a sport. It is not the same as a regular physical. During the sports physical, the health care provider looks for any diseases or injuries that could make it unsafe to participate in sports and reviews the family’s medical history to ensure additional tests are performed if necessary.”
A sports physical will begin with a comprehensive medical history that includes–but is not limited to–asthma, allergies, vision problems, eating disorders, medications, family history, dizziness or fainting spells, headaches and heart problems. After the medical history is complete, the health care provider will conduct a physical exam. This exam will include–according to WebMD–but is not limited to:
- Measure height and weight
- Take pulse rate and blood pressure
- Check the heart and lungs
- Check neurological function such as reflexes, coordination, and strength
- Test your child’s vision and hearing
- Check the ears, nose, and throat
- Look at joint flexibility, mobility, spinal alignment, and posture
- Screen cholesterol, obtain a hemoglobin count, and perform a urinalysis
- Genital exam (to screen for hernias in males)
- Immunizations if needed
Once the exam is completed, your health care provider will discuss your child’s ability and readiness to participate in the sport or sports of their choice. They may suggest precautions or modifications to be made to help ensure the health and safety of your child.
Please visit any of our six UNI locations if you are in need of a sports physical. No appointment needed, walk-in, get evaluated, and be prepared for spring sports!
This information is not a substitute for medical advice nor is it intended as such. If you have questions about your health please contact our office, or 911 in case of an emergency.