Teens and Sports Physicals
A summer must do for all athletes of any age.
To get ready for the upcoming sports seasons, there is a lot to do: prepping equipment, getting the snack schedule down pat, and getting into the routine of practices, just to name a few.
However, the most important thing you can do to make sure your athlete is prepared for the new season, getting a sports physical completed by your Pediatrician. What sets our practice apart is that we do more than just a quick heart and lungs check. We do a comprehensive Well Check visit which delves more into your teenager as a person.
A sports physical or a preparticipation physical examination (PPE) helps determine if it is safe for your child to participate in their favorite sport. Most schools and teams require it, but if it isn’t required, it is highly recommended that your child receives one. There are two main parts of a sports physical: gathering the medical history, and the physical exam.
Medical History
These questions are important to build a history for your child that helps your Pediatrician get the whole picture of your child’s health. Try to take your time answering these questions, and don’t give answers that you, or your child, think your Doctor wants to hear. Your Pediatrician will ask questions about:
- Family history of serious illnesses
- Illnesses the child might have had (if not already on record)
- Previous surgeries or hospital trips
- Allergies
- Possible past sports-related injuries such as sprains, concussions, or fractures
- If the child has ever had dizzy spells, lost consciousness, had chest pain, or trouble breathing during or after exercise
- Any medications that your child might be on, including over-the-counter medications, herbal supplements, vitamins, and prescription medications
Physical Exam
The questions and exam for the physical exam will be specific to your child and their physical needs.
The physical exam is where your Pediatrician will:
- Record your child’s height and weight
- Take their blood pressure and pulse
- Evaluate their posture, joints, strength, and flexibility
- Test their vision
- Check the heart, lungs, and other systems impacted by athletics
Schedule an appointment
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Sports Physicals
Sports physicals are the most important part of pre-season preparation. They help your athletes, and your Pediatrician find and help handle any health problems that might interfere with your child playing a sport. Your Pediatrician will also be able to help give advice on how to avoid injuries, identify risk factors, and keep a good record of your child’s baselines.
If you have any questions about sports physicals, or even just regular wellness check-ups feel free to contact us for more information or to schedule an appointment. We look forward to seeing your children enjoying their favorite sports this year!