A number of school activities bar participation without the completion of a physical. While this may seem unwarranted to some, the rule serves to ensure your student is healthy enough to engage in certain sports. Patients First Medical Clinic LLC, a medical clinic in Anchorage, AK, has performed countless physical examinations for young athletes. They believe the test can determine if a student is capable of participating in sports, prevent accidents before they happen, and teach young children how to care for their bodies.

3 Reasons Why a Sports Physical Is Required

Overall Health

Sports can put the body through high amounts of stress. Daily practices, strength and conditioning training, and games themselves all require cardiovascular and muscular effort. If a student has a heart condition, such as an irregular beat or murmur, they may not be healthy enough to participate. A number of other health conditions may also be too severe for sports. Receiving a physical before stepping up to the plate will keep your child safe from harm.

Prevention

Some health conditions, such as diabetes and asthma, can be severe enough to hinder athletic performance, but not severe enough to keep students from playing. In fact, many asthmatic students participate in sports. Their physician can prescribe an inhale to combat attacks at school. Plus, a physical can reveal early signs of diabetes, such as insulin resistance. From there, your primary care physician can recommend dietary supplements to keep your student safe.

Teach Healthy Habits

When a student receives a physical, many doctors will talk with their entire family about health. This may include proper diet, stretching, muscle repair, sleep schedules, and water intake. Your child must treat his or her body with care to perform at an exceptional athletic level. This visit will instill healthy habits into their daily routine that will benefit them for a lifetime.

If your school requires a physical examination before sports participation, it is likely because an exam can determine the student’s overall health, prevent illness or injury, and help teach fundamental habits. If you need to schedule a sports physical, consider Patients First Medical Clinic LLC. For more information, visit their website or call (907) 333-7425 today.