Sports Physicals
As the sports season approaches, many parents are probably busy helping their soon-to-be MVPs get in shape and hone their skills for their upcoming games. Parents and student-athletes who have been consistent participants since the little leagues know that every sports season starts with sports physicals.
Sports physicals are not just a school or team requirement needed so your child can compete in the upcoming season. It actually plays a vital role in ensuring a child’s overall health and well-being一not just on the court or field.
Furthermore, sports physicals are not limited to student-athletes and children who play organized sports alone. It is a must for every young individual who leads an active lifestyle.
Read on below to learn everything there is about sports physicals in Ossining.
What is a sports physical?
A sports physical is a medical exam that determines if a child or teen is physically healthy and able to participate in the upcoming sports season. It will show whether or not it’s safe for them to play their sports or chosen activity, whether for an organized sports event or recreational purposes.
Most states require every student-athlete to undergo a sports physicals or preparticipation examination (PPE) before they can play to ensure safety. Furthermore, it can also help healthcare providers address health concerns or possible injuries that may have an impact on one’s ability to play their sport.
When are sports physicals needed?
Generally, sports physicals should be done yearly for children in grades 7-12 who participate in sports or any kind of physical activity. The frequency usually differs depending on what state you are in.
Even if your child has already undergone their school physical or annual medical check-up, it’s still important to do sports physicals at least six weeks before the season starts. The latter provides a more extensive health exam in relation to a child’s chosen sport.
About our sports physicals in Ossining
Sports physicals entail various kinds of health and wellness exams depending on your doctor and chosen healthcare facility. But generally, our sports physicals in Ossining involve two phases, namely:
Medical history
The preparticipation examination begins with a conversation about your child’s health history. So, make sure to come prepared with a detailed list of your kid’s allergies, current conditions, family health history, and immunizations. Some examples of the questions your doctor may ask you and your child include the following:
- Family conditions that may be passed on to the child.
- Medical conditions that the child has or had, such as asthma and other respiratory illnesses.
- Allergies, such as dust or insect bites.
- Past hospitalizations and surgeries.
- Past injuries, such as sprains, strains, fractures, and dislocations.
- Other health problems experienced while doing physical activity, such as fainting or chest pain.
- Current medications including dietary supplements and performance-enhancing drugs.
- Past or current experience with smoking, vaping, drugs, and alcohol.
Parents are usually given a form or questionnaire where they will answer the above-mentioned questions. Your doctor may also do an interview based on your answers on the form. So, make sure to answer carefully and truthfully.
Physical exam and fitness check
Next is a thorough physical examination of the athlete to check the health of their heart, lungs, bones, joints, and abdomen. They will also identify potential limitations or weak spots that may affect a child’s ability to play safely. Some of the specific procedures your doctor will perform include the following:
- Recording the height and weight
- Taking blood pressure, pulse rate, and other vital signs
- A vision test or eye examination
- Hearing test
- Checking the lungs, heart, abdomen, throat, ears, and nose.
- Evaluating the joint strength, flexibility, and range of motion in relation to their chosen sport.
Doctors usually compare current results to the child’s old ones to see if there are developmental delays and other health concerns that need to be addressed. If any problems arise, your physician may order additional testing or schedule another appointment with you and your child.
Why are sports physicals important?
Sports physicals exist to provide schools, coaches, and parents with a comprehensive report regarding student-athletes’ overall well-being and physical fitness. Additionally, it will help find out if a child is in good health and great mental shape to participate in organized sports events.
Moreover, sports physicals can reveal medical issues or physical limitations that may increase the risk of injury. Your medical provider will then advise on how to manage a condition or prevent future injuries, such as a specific warm-up technique or a new medication to control an illness.
Where can I find sports physicals in Ossining?
Is your child’s little league coming up sooner rather than later? If you’re looking for a healthcare facility that provides sports physicals in Ossining, then you’re on the right page!
Immediate Medical Care MD is one of the best urgent cares in Westchester that provides sports physicals for children and teens who live an active life. Make sure that your child is fit to play on and off the court by teaming up with the board-certified professionals at Immediate Medical Care MD.
Our immediate medical center also offers high-quality treatment options for urgent medical needs, as well as immunizations and diagnostic tests. Contact us now to learn more!
The material contained on this site is for informational purposes only and DOES NOT CONSTITUTE THE PROVIDING OF MEDICAL ADVICE, and is not intended to be a substitute for independent professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health.