Sports Physicals
Playing sports helps children stay fit. They are also a fun way to socialize and meet other kids.
The sports physical is a pre-participation physical exam. The exam helps determine whether it’s safe for your child to participate in a particular sport. Most schools require children to have a sports physical before they start a new sport or begin a new competitive season. A sports physical can help you find out about and deal with any health issues that might interfere with their participation such as asthma or how to avoid injuries.
What to Expect During a Sports Physical
The two main parts to a sports physical are the medical history and the physical exam.
Medical History:
This part of the exam includes questions about:
- serious illnesses among other family members
- illnesses that you had when you were younger or may have now, such as asthma,diabetes, or epilepsy
- previous hospitalizations or surgeries
- allergies (to insect bites, for example)
- past injuries (including concussions, sprains, or bone fractures)
- whether you’re child has ever passed out, felt dizzy, had chest pain, or had trouble breathing during exercise
- any medications that you are on (including over-the-counter medications, herbal supplements, and prescription medications)
Looking at patterns of illness in your family is a very good indicator of any potential conditions you may have.
Physical Examination:
During the physical part of the exam, your medical provider will:
- record your height and weight
- take a blood pressure and pulse (heart rate and rhythm) reading
- test your vision, check your heart, lungs, abdomen, ears, nose, and throat
- evaluate your posture, joints, strength, and flexibility
Although most aspects of the exam will be the same for males and females, female athletes are at higher risk of some medical complications. For example, if a girl is heavily involved in a lot of active sports, the doctor may ask her about her period and diet to make sure she doesn’t have something like female athlete triad (poor nutrition, irregular or absent periods, and weak bones).
The provider will also ask questions about the use of drugs, dietary supplements, “performance enhancers” and weight-loss supplements because these can affect a person’s health.
Results
At the end of your exam, the provider will either fill out and sign a form if everything checks out or, in some cases, recommend a follow-up exam, additional tests, or specific treatment for medical problems.
Pediatric Care at Sunshine
Schedule a visit with and experienced pediatrician focused on developmental milestones, safety, nutrition and your family’s emotional well-being.
- Now accepting new patients (children of all ages)
- We accept Denali KidCare and private insurance
- Sliding fee scale available
How to Tell if Your Child has an Ear Infection and What To Do
Ear infections in children are more prevalent than you think. But, most ear infections when caught early, are not serious. Here's how you can tell if your child has an ear infection. If your child cannot say "My ear/s hurt," then these are the symptoms you should...
Three Signs That Indicate Your Child May Have Vision Problems
As children grow from year to year, so does their vision. During childhood there may be obvious signs where parents can tell that their child has vision problems; symptoms such as squinting, holding a book very close to their face, or complain about blurry vision....
Water Safety for Toddlers – Tips Every Parent Should Know
The toddler years have the highest drowning risk because, for children and toddlers, water is a lovely medium for play. Little ones have no fear and don't realize it can be a danger to them as well. It is up to parents and adults to ensure the safety of our children....
Back to School Family Clinic Month
Getting ready for the school year to start can be a busy time with a long to-do list. Sunshine wants to make it easier for you to get it all done. We are hosting Back to School Family Clinic Month in both the Talkeetna and Willow offices. Pick up a free backpack with...
Tips For Teaching Children About Feelings
It can be challenging for children to describe when they feel sad, scared, or excited since feelings are a somewhat abstract concept. But, it is important to teach your child about their emotions as early as possible since their emotions will affect every choice they...