Before your children hit the practice field for fall sports, they’ll need to get a sports physical exam. While this can seem like an inconvenience, kids’ physicals can help ensure their safety and well-being.
Physicals are often required for school sports, so here’s what you need to know.
Why are sports physicals needed?
Sports physicals are important because they can rule out medical conditions. These medical conditions might include heart, lung, neurological or musculoskeletal problems that have not yet been identified.
Each year, hundreds of athletes end up in hospital emergency departments due to reactions or complications to potentially life-threatening conditions. That’s why many states, including Ohio and Kentucky, require sports physical exams before children can participate in any physical activity at school or a community organization.
Here’s what you can expect to happen at your child’s physical exam:
- A review of your child’s medical history.
- Making note of any prescriptions, vitamins and dietary supplements they are taking.
- A complete physical exam that includes checking your child’s heart, lungs, abdomen, ears, nose and throat.
- Taking your child’s height and weight and checking their blood pressure, pulse, respirations and oxygen saturation.
- Testing your child’s vision.
- Examining all their major joints and testing for strength as well as flexibility.
- Getting information about concussions from the provider.
If your child has an identified medical condition or has recently had an injury, their provider may limit some activities or provide tips to help prevent re-injury or harm.
What should I bring to my child’s sports physical exam?
Be sure to bring any participation forms that the health care team will need to complete. Also, if your child wears glasses or contacts, bring those along, too.
How we can help
Sports physical exams are an important step in helping to avoid preventable injuries or health issues while your child is playing a sport. Make an appointment with your child’s primary care provider to schedule their physical well in advance of their season’s start.
Learn more about the primary care services we provide at Mercy Health.
