While most people go to the doctor’s office when they are injured or feel ill, it is also the destination for preventative care and routine evaluations such as sports physicals. Some families wait until school starts to prepare for athletics, but summer is the perfect time to have an exam without long waits. Learn more below about the advantages of having a sports physical. 

Guide to Doctor’s Office Sports Physicals 

Exam Details 

During a sports physical, the doctor will ask you and your child about his or her medical history. You may also be asked to fill out a form before arriving that includes this information. Questions include what allergies or illnesses they currently have, as well as what hospitalizations or surgeries they’ve undergone in the past.

The physician will also want to know about health conditions in the immediate family, previous injuries like concussions or fractures, and whether they’ve ever been faint or had trouble breathing while engaging in exercise. Your child will also need to list their current medications, including over-the-counter medicines and vitamin supplements. After a review of this information, it is time for the physical exam portion.

During the physical evaluation, the doctor will check your child’s height, weight, and blood pressure. Other important considerations include their resting pulse rate, reflexes, and coordination. Like a regular annual checkup, they will review the heart, lungs, nose, ears, and throat.

If your child is a male, they will receive a genital exam to check for hernias. The physician may also look at their posture, spinal alignment, and joint flexibility. If your son or daughter appears healthy, they will receive a go-ahead to participate in the sport of their choice. If an illness or health condition is found, they may be referred for further testing. 

Evaluation Benefits 

Sports physicals are essential for kids because they ensure a child is healthy enough to engage in school athletics. Since asthma, heart conditions, and scoliosis can appear after a child begins school, it is important for your doctor to determine if a challenge is present that may affect their ability to safely play sports. These physicals are also an excellent way to make sure they are up to date on immunizations before class starts. If any treatment or vaccination is necessary, your child can receive it quickly. 

Every child’s health is important, especially when they engage in physical activities and contact sports. Superior Urgent Care in Keller, TX, is a skilled provider of pre-employment, DOT, and sports physicals for patients of all ages. To make an appointment for care now with the doctor’s office, call (817) 576-4050. Explore their urgent care and walk-in clinic services by visiting their website. Learn more about Dr. Kanu, the medical clinic, and the staff by following them on Instagram.