Sports Physicals: Checking Your Kids Before the Season Starts

As summer winds down, the preparation for school and team sports is heating up!  Before you know it, it will be time to shuttle kids back and forth to practice and games in between school and homework. Back-to-school prep for our young athletes is far more than new shoes, shin guards, athletic bags and water bottles. A Sports Physical should be at the very top of your list!

A PPE (Participation Physical Examination) determines whether it’s safe for your child to play a particular sport and is often required for participation in school or league sports. But even if a PPE isn’t required, it’s still highly recommended.

A Sports Physical consists of collecting a complete medical history as well as a physical exam.

  • Family history of serious disease
  • Childhood illnesses such as asthma, diabetes, epilepsy
  • Previous hospitalizations or surgeries
  • Allergies (food, insects, seasonal)
  • Past injuries (broken bones, sprains, concussions)
  • Incidents of chest pain, dizziness, difficulty breathing or fainting
  • Medications, both prescription and over the counter, as well as herbal supplements
  • For female athletes, the regularity and ease of menstrual periods

During the physical portion of the exam, the doctor will:

  • Record height and weight
  • Take a blood pressure and pulse reading
  • Test vision
  • Check the heart and lungs
  • Palpate the abdomen
  • Check ears, nose and throat
  • Evaluate posture, joints, strength and flexibility
  • Make recommendations on how to optimize athletic performance either by seeking treatment or doing specific exercises

A Sports Physical will help diagnose health problems as well as help identify risk factors that are linked to specific sports making for a happier and healthier athletic season!

Call In Health Clinic to schedule an Athlete’s Sports Physical.  Ask for our $40 back-to-school special (a $75 value).

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