Sports are a great way to stay healthy and active, but they can also be dangerous. That’s why it’s important for student-athletes to have a sports physical before they start participating in any sport. A sports physical is a comprehensive exam that helps to ensure an athlete is healthy enough to participate in sports safely.
Here’s what you need to know about this test and where you can go for this test in Westchase, Palm Harbor, Trinity, &Lutz, FL.
What is a Sports Physical?
A sports physical is a medical exam that is specifically designed to assess an athlete’s health for participation in sports. The exam typically includes:
- A review of the athlete’s medical history
- A physical exam
- Tests for specific health conditions that may be relevant to sports participation
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that all student-athletes have a sports physical before the start of each sports season.
What Happens During a Sports Physical?
The first part of a sports physical is a review of the athlete’s medical history. The doctor will ask questions about:
- The athlete’s past health
- Any current health problems
- Any family history of medical problems
The doctor will also ask about the athlete’s medications, allergies, and any injuries that the athlete has had.
The second part of a sports physical is a physical exam. The doctor will check the athlete’s:
- Height and weight
- Blood pressure
- Pulse
- Vision and hearing
- Heart
- Lungs
- Abdomen
- Muscles and joints
The doctor may also order specific tests, such as an EKG or echocardiogram, if there are any concerns about the athlete’s health.
What Happens After a Sports Physical?
The results of the sports physical should be reviewed with the athlete and their parents or guardians.
If the doctor finds any health problems during the sports physical, the athlete may be given a medical clearance to participate in sports with restrictions.
For example, an athlete with a heart condition may be limited to non-contact sports. In some cases, the doctor may recommend that the athlete not participate in sports at all.
How Student-Athletes Can Prepare for a Sports Physical
Here are some tips on how student-athletes can prepare for a sports physical:
- Complete the medical history form.
- Bring a list of your medications and allergies.
- Know your sports history.
- Ask questions.
- Arrive on time for your appointment.
- Dress comfortably.
By following these tips, you can help to ensure that your sports physical is a smooth and informative experience.
The Importance of Sports Physicals
Sports physicals are important for a number of reasons.
Identifying Health Problems
First, they can help to identify health problems that could be made worse by sports participation.
For example, an athlete with a heart condition may be at risk of sudden cardiac arrest during strenuous activity.
A sports physical can help to identify this condition and prevent a serious injury.
Ensuring Student-Athletes are Fit to Play
Second, sports physicals can help to ensure that athletes are physically fit to participate in sports. This means that they:
- Are strong enough
- Are healthy enough
- Have the endurance to participate in the sport they choosesafely
A sports physical can help to assess an athlete’s fitness level and identify any areas where they may need to improve.
Preventing Injuries
Third, sports physicals can help to prevent injuries. By identifying potential injuries or risk factors, the doctor can recommend ways to prevent them.
For example, an athlete with flat feet may be at risk of ankle sprains. The doctor may recommend that the athlete wear orthotics to help prevent these injuries.
In addition to these benefits, sports physicals can also help to:
- Identify and treat underlying medical conditions.
- Assess the athlete’s overall health and fitness.
- Provide information on the risks and benefits of sports participation.
- Help the athlete and their guardians make informed decisions about sports participation.
If you are a student-athlete, it is important to have a sports physical before you start participating in any sport.
This will help ensure that you are healthy enough to participate safely and not at risk of any injuries.
School Physicals in Westchase, Palm Harbor, Trinity, &Lutz, FL
Sports physicals are yearly checkups on your child’s health that ensure they are healthy and able to participate in school sports and activities. At Children’s Medical Center, we are dedicated to providing outstanding pediatric medical care, and we perform hundreds of sports physicals every year for student-athletes.
Our board-certified pediatricians are available seven days a week at our convenient locations in the greater Tampa/St. Petersburg area. To arrange an appointment, call us today at (727) 787-6335 or contact our location nearest you. We look forward to helping your child enjoy a healthy, active childhood!
