Who Needs to Get a Physical Exam for Sports?

Most states require all student athletes to complete a sports physical before participating in any school-sanctioned sport. However, non-student athletes playing in club or recreational sports may also be required to pass a sports physical before they’re eligible to hit the field.
 
A sports physical can help find out about and deal with health problems that might interfere with your sports performance or increase the chance of getting hurt. For example, if you have frequent asthma attacks, the doctor can adjust your medicines so that you can breathe more easily when you run.
 
 

How Often Would I Need a Sport Physical Exam?

Sports physicals are typically valid for one calendar year. However, it’s best to check with your child’s school or league, as some states require a sports physical to be completed before each sports season, even if they fall within the same school year.

 

What Should I Expect From a Sport Physical?

During the physical examination, our doctor will check the individual’s vital signs, such as blood pressure, heart rate, and respiratory rate. We will also evaluate the individual’s overall physical fitness, including their flexibility, strength, and endurance. We will also examine the individual’s eyes, ears, nose, throat, and skin.

What Kind of Medical Tests are Performed During a Sports Physical Exam?

Medical tests that may be included in a sports physical examination may include blood tests, urine tests, and electrocardiograms (EKGs). Blood tests can detect conditions such as anemia, diabetes, and high cholesterol. Urine tests can identify kidney problems and urinary tract infections. EKGs can detect heart conditions such as arrhythmias and congenital heart defects.

The importance of sports physical examinations cannot be overstated.

They are necessary for ensuring the safety of athletes and preventing serious health problems. Here are some reasons why sports physical examinations are essential:

  • Identifying underlying health issues: A sports physical examination can identify any underlying health issues that may be present but undiagnosed. These issues may include heart problems, asthma, and diabetes.

  • Ensuring that athletes are healthy enough to participate: The examination helps determine if the individual is physically fit enough to participate in a particular sport. This is important because participating in sports with an underlying health condition can be dangerous.

  • Preventing injuries: The examination can identify areas of weakness, such as poor flexibility or strength, which can increase the risk of injury. By identifying these areas, athletes can work on improving them and reduce the risk of getting injured.

  • Providing peace of mind: Knowing that an athlete is healthy and fit to participate in a particular sport can give them and their loved ones peace of mind. It can also help them perform better since they will not have to worry about their health during the game.

Schedule a Sport Physical Exam Today