Sports physicals are usually required for children and teens to be allowed to join a sporting team. Your child can have one done at their primary care clinic with their primary doctor, but if you and your child are nervous or unsure of what to expect, it’s beneficial to learn why these physicals are done and what they look for. Below is a brief guide on what to expect.

What Are They?

Sports physicals, also called preparticipation physical examinations, are done to determine if an athlete is healthy enough to participate in sports without serious risk to their health. They may be required at any age prior to your child joining a team, or before each new season starts, and they enable you and your child’s physician to monitor their health and growth. Ideally, they’re completed at least six weeks before the season starts, so any problems that are found can be handled in time for the season.

The physical looks for potential health problems and risk factors that can interfere with performance or safety, especially bone and joint problems. Physicals can also help check your child’s mental health, heart health (such as identifying murmurs), and aim to detect any existing injuries or conditions—like scoliosis—that need treatment or increase the risk of injury. They’ll address any unique needs your child has, such as females—who are more likely to experience bone and joint injuries—or disabled athletes, to ensure they can play safely.

What Should You Expect?

During the first part of the exam, the doctor will go over the child’s medical history, including their family’s health history, past injuries and complaints, any current injuries or medications, and they’ll ask questions about their overall feelings of well-being. During the first part, the doctor will go over the child’s medical history,  including their family’s health history, past injuries and complaints, any current injuries or medications, and they’ll ask questions about their overall feelings of wellbeing. 

After this, they’ll move on to the examination, which can include checking heart rate, taking blood pressure, testing vision, measuring height and weight, listening to the lungs, and examining the throat, ears, belly, and nose. They may ask about your child’s diet, if they’re up to date on vaccines, if they’re using any substances or supplements, and—for women—their menstrual cycles.

The exam may also include checking posture, flexibility, endurance, joint health, and strength. If anything abnormal is discovered, follow-up exams, testing, or treatments may be needed before your child can play sports.

Are you looking for a welcoming primary care clinic and physician to complete your child’s sports physicals? Mante Pediatrics in Chester, SC, offers comprehensive pediatric care, including physicals, wellness exams, allergy treatments, mental and behavioral concerns, and acute injury and illness care. With multiple locations and years of experience, they offer an individualized, skilled approach. Learn more about their services online, and call (803) 385-2075 to schedule a physical today.