Sports Physicals Specialist

What is a sports physical?

A sports physical is a medical exam used to determine if your child is healthy enough to participate in a particular sport or athletic activity. Most school districts and youth sports organizations require participants to undergo a sports physical each year, before the start of a new season. 

Even if your child’s school or team doesn’t require this step, undergoing a sports physical is still important. These appointments provide key insights and information about your child’s physical well-being and can alert you to potential problems early on when they’re most responsive to treatment.

Why are sports physicals so important?

Scheduling a sports physical for your child might seem unnecessary, but it provides an easy and effective way to better understand and manage certain health problems. For example, if your child has asthma or a pollen allergy, they might cough, wheeze, or have trouble breathing while competing outdoors.

A sports physical can pinpoint the cause of their discomfort. Your child’s KID-DOC Pediatrics provider can also offer guidance and treatment recommendations to manage these symptoms, allowing them to thrive during physical activity. 

Sports physicals also provide safety insights. If your son or daughter plays contact sports like football or hockey, it’s important they wear the proper safety equipment. Your child’s provider can also make recommendations about stretching and warming up, cooling down, and proper form.

What happens during a sports physical?

At KID-DOC Pediatrics, a sports physical begins with a comprehensive physical exam. During this appointment, your child’s provider reviews their medical history, observes their gait and posture, and has your son or daughter perform a series of simple range-of-motion exercises. 

Your child’s KID-DOC Pediatrics provider also asks you or your child questions about any history of injuries and their exercise regimen. Next, they evaluate your child’s joints, strength, and flexibility, and check all of your child’s vitals including their heart rate, respiratory rate, and blood pressure.

After gathering all of the necessary information, your child’s provider signs a piece of paperwork you can give to their school or sports league, allowing them to participate safely for the entire season. 

If it’s time to schedule a sports physical appointment for your child or teenager at KID-DOC Pediatrics, call the office or book online today.