Categories: Physical Exam

Why are Sports Physicals Needed?

Certain medical professionals are approved to perform sports physical on children and teenagers. These include medical doctors, chiropractic doctors, physician assistants and registered nurses. They all have the training and knowledge to ensure that athletes are not at risk during sports. If you are wondering why your child needs one of these physicals, keep reading to learn more.

About sports physicals

Many parents wonder why their children need to have a sports physical. This is especially true when the children have already undergone an annual physical given by their primary care provider. An annual physical is given to children to make sure that they are overall healthy. A sports physical is given to children to make sure that they are in good enough shape to take part in sports without complication. Every parent wants their children to be safe when playing sports. For this reason, every child needs to have a sports physical performed before participating.

According to American Family Physician, approximately 30 million athletes younger than 18 years old receive medical clearance to play sports every year. Make sure your child is included in this statistic to ensure that they are safe during their sport.

How often are sports physicals required?

Generally speaking, when a child undergoes a sports physical, they are approved to play in their sport for one calendar year. This can cover all sports during the school year. Since there are a few states that make it necessary for children to undergo a sports physical before each season of sports, parents need to check with the school to see the exact requirements.

What happens during a sports physical?

Two different parts make up a sports physical. The first part requires parents to answer questions about their child’s medical history. A medical professional will carefully go through the answers to determine whether any patterns exist that could potentially lead to a child being injured when playing sports. The answers will also help to determine whether any underlying health conditions could hinder your child’s ability to participate.

The second part requires the child to undergo a physical examination. A medical professional will check the child’s height and weight, take their blood pressure and listen to their heart and lungs. They will also examine their ears, nose and throat, test their vision, examine their posture and check their joints for overall strength and flexibility.

If everything is good to go, the medical staff will sign the relevant paperwork and clear the child to play. Should something be of concern, the physician may ask for the child to undergo testing such as an electrocardiogram.

Need to schedule a sports physical for your child?

Does your child need a sports physical to participate in their favorite sport? If so, you can visit our urgent care center to get your child cleared to play. Instead of scheduling a visit with your family doctor, you can walk into our clinic at any time to get a physical.

Call us today at (580) 922-4406 for more information from Janey L Hammons NP-C.

Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Sports Physical in Seiling, OK.

Recent Posts

4 Reasons Why Vaccinations Are Important

A vaccination is an effective and simple protective technique against harmful ailments before you contract them. Each immunization activates the body’s natural soldiers as defenders against specific infections. Knowing why this shot is vital can motivate you to update yours. Here are four reasons a vaccination is vital.Through the years, advancements in medical technology have…

When To Seek Medical Attention: Signs That You Need A Sick Visit

Getting sick is a part of life, and it is common for someone to feel under the weather at least once or twice a year, but most people are hesitant to take a sick visit or seek medical attention because they do not feel that their illness is serious enough to warrant more aggressive action.…

4 Benefits Of Regular Visits To A Medical Clinic

A medical clinic is where patients can go for their outpatient healthcare needs. These facilities provide various services, from primary and urgent care to specific healthcare needs. Patients who regularly visit a medical clinic are more likely to get regular preventive care treatments and screenings, prompt care for urgent health matters, and help manage chronic…

Common Reasons To Need A Skin Biopsy

A skin biopsy, where a tiny amount of skin tissue is removed for examination, is an essential diagnostic process in medicine for several skin problems. From rashes to obstructive moles, skin biopsies help healthcare providers identify and treat skin problems. Learning about the need for a skin biopsy may demystify the process for people and…

Janey

Share
Published by
Janey

Recent Posts

4 Reasons Why Vaccinations Are Important

Studies show that vaccination is the only health intervention that can reach people far and…

2 weeks ago

When to Seek Medical Attention: Signs That You Need a Sick Visit

Sick visits are valuable opportunities to have a medical professional evaluate your symptoms.

2 months ago

4 Benefits of Regular Visits to a Medical Clinic

Patients who regularly visit a medical clinic are more likely to get regular preventive care…

3 months ago

Common Reasons To Need a Skin Biopsy

A skin biopsy, where a tiny amount of skin tissue is removed for examination, is…

4 months ago

First Aid Essentials for Wound Care: Caring for Cuts and Scrapes

Wondering about wound care and when to seek medical advice? Read on to learn more.

5 months ago

How Well Does Medical Weight Loss Work?

Find out how well a medical weight loss program works in order to get off…

6 months ago