A sports physical helps ensure that it’s safe for your child or teen athlete to participate in physical activity. During the exam, a physician gathers medical information and takes vitals; checks the heart, lungs, ears, eyes, nose, and stomach; and assesses flexibility and range of motion. This comprehensive exam offers a number of benefits, three of which are itemized below.

The Importance of Sports Physicals

1. You'll Be in Compliance With the Law

If your child is going to participate in school-sanctioned sports, most states—including Alabama—require documented evidence that a licensed physician has performed a sports physical on your student before a new competitive season begins. The physician must attest that the student has passed a physical and is approved for participation. A sports physical is not typically required for students enrolled in physical education classes. The requirement usually applies only to extracurricular sports for children in grades 7 through 12.

2. You'll Identify Potential Health Problems Early

Many serious or chronic conditions can be detected early in a child's life during a routine sports physical. And the sooner you're aware of a potential health issue, the more effectively you can address it. Medical conditions that may show up in a physical include respiratory illnesses like asthma; cardiac concerns like heart murmurs; elevated blood pressure levels; old musculoskeletal injuries; and vision problems.

3. You'll Receive Professional Advice for Preventing Injuries & Maximizing Performance

During a sports physical, ask questions. A physician can offer guidance on how to avoid sports-related injuries and how to train to maximize performance. They can inform both parents and patients of the risk factors of playing sports so that proactive steps can be taken to reduce the chance of injury.

Robertsdale Urgent Care is a family medical practice offering physician-approved sports physicals to athletes in the Baldwin County, AL, area. From preventative treatments to emergency care, they are committed to the health of your whole family. Ensure a healthy season on the field, the court, or the course for your school-age athlete by calling Robertsdale Urgent Care at (251) 947-3591, or visit them online to schedule an appointment.