With the school year just beginning, your child or teen might be expressing interest in playing a sport. To ensure they are healthy enough to join an athletic team, many schools require a sports physical. To help you learn more about this wellness exam, here’s a guide to the basics of this checkup and what your young athlete can expect during your appointment. 

What Parents Should Know About Sports Physicals

What Is a Sports Physical?

A sports physical is a wellness exam that determines whether your child can safely participate in an activity. Depending on the school’s requirements, you may need to schedule this physical at the beginning of the school year or each sports season. Your family doctor will perform the exam and sign any necessary forms to provide to the school such as the Anchorage School District Sports Physical – Health Examination Form

What Can You Expect During a Sports Physical?

A sports physical is similar to a yearly wellness check. The doctor will first talk to you and your child about your child's health history, including family history, past illnesses, past hospitalizations, and past injuries. They will also perform a thorough exam, testing the young athlete’s blood pressure, pulse, abdomen, ears, nose, throat, and posture. Some sports physicals also require vision tests. 

Be sure to bring a list of your child’s medications and information about any injuries or conditions they have. Once they determine that your child is cleared for strenuous activity, the doctor will fill out your forms. In the event they detect a condition that prevents the child from safely playing a sport— such as asthma— the doctor might recommend accommodations like an inhaler, physical therapy, or breaks during activity.

Why Should Your Child Get a Sports Physical Each Year?

While it might seem like just another item on your back-to-school checklist, a sports physical is critical to your child or teen’s health. This wellness exam may uncover health issues that could affect their safety or performance on the field. With this examination, you get the peace of mind that your little one is safe as they play.

If your child or teen needs a sports physical for the upcoming school year, make an appointment at Hillside Family Medicine. Located in Anchorage, AK, this team offers a wide variety of family health services, including women’s and men’s health care, pediatric care, wellness exams, contraceptive services, and occupational medicine. Visit them online to view a full list of their services, or call (907) 344-0200 to make an appointment.