Schedule School & Sports Physicals Near Me in Tacoma, WA

School sports physicals are exams used to determine whether teens can participate in sports during the school year. The exam is used by the school to make sure teens are healthy enough to participate in physical sports like basketball, football, soccer, and more. During the exam, your child will be asked about allergies, serious illnesses in the family, illnesses they had when they were younger, and any medicines they're taking. They'll also be asked about any past injuries, previous surgeries or hospitalizations, and whether they've ever had chest pain, passed out, felt dizzy, or had trouble breathing during exercise. Once the medical history is taken, the physical exam starts and the doctor will test their vision, record their height and weight, and take their blood pressure and pulse. They'll also evaluate their flexibility, joints, posture, and strength, as well as check their abdomen, lungs, heart, nose, ears, and throat.

A sports physical is important because it can help you discover and deal with any health problems that could interfere with your child's ability to participate in a sport. It's best to get your child's sports physical done as far in advance as possible before the season begins for the sport they want to participate in.

A sports physical can help you and your doctor decide whether or not it is safe for you or your child to participate in sports. Understanding what happens during a sports physical will assist you in preparing for your appointment and selecting the appropriate practitioner.

What is a sports physical?

The goal of a sports physical, according to the National Institutes of Health, is to identify any health conditions or concerns that could put you at risk for injury, illness, or death when engaging in sports (NIH). Most schools require students to have a sports physical before starting a new academic year or sports season.

According to Texas A&M University, a typical sports physical includes an in-depth discussion of your medical history as well as a physical examination. If your health is in good standing, your doctor will sign the necessary school documents, allowing you to continue participating in your sport of choice. According to the university, if your doctor suspects a medical condition, you may be encouraged to undergo more tests or wear special protective equipment such as a brace while engaging in sports.

Medical history

Your doctor will most likely enquire about your personal and family medical histories during a sports physical.

According to Texas A&M University, the most common family medical history questions revolve around a family history of heart disease and particular cardiac disorders including arrhythmia and Marfan syndrome. Your doctor might also ask if anyone in your family died of heart disease suddenly or young (before the age of 50).

Your doctor may question your personal medical history, such as whether you have asthma or other respiratory problems, headaches, a history of concussion, or if you've ever felt exhausted when exercising. According to Texas A&M University, your doctor may also ask if you've ever been diagnosed with a cardiac murmur.

The purpose of these discussions, according to the university, is to identify any potential health issues that may occur during or as a result of sports participation.

Physical examination

During the physical examination, your vital signs, eyesight, and hearing will all be tested. Heart and lung diseases are among the most common health concerns among doctors who provide sports physicals, according to Texas A&M University. Doctors also check for muscle and joint abnormalities and make sure you don't have any problems with your head, shoulders, back, or knees, according to the University.

According to the University, if you have a history of joint instability or twisted ankles, your doctor may recommend specific strengthening exercises or a change in diet if you are overweight. This is also an excellent time to speak with your doctor about strategies to improve your physical fitness before the start of the sports season.

Why is a sports physical important?

A sports physical is important because it teaches you how to avoid injuries while playing sports and how to conduct specific activities safely if you have a chronic medical condition, according to the National Library of Medicine (NLM).
According to the National Library of Medicine, a sports physical can determine whether you are in good condition, have any present ailments, or were born with any diseases that may increase your risk of injury. Your degree of physical fitness and body maturity are also assessed during a sports physical.

When and where should I go for a sports physical?

Texas A&M University recommends scheduling your sports physical four to eight weeks before the start of the season. This gives your doctor enough time to investigate and respond to any concerns you might have during your initial session. It also gives you more time to see a medical specialist if necessary for treatment of your condition or injury.

A sports physical can be combined with a wellness exam or a well-child visit, according to Texas A&M University. It goes on to add that in some situations, sports physicals can be done on campus at your child's school. Inquire with your doctor about getting a sports physical for yourself or your children.

What if there’s a problem?

If your doctor determines that you or your child has a health or medical concern that prevents you or your child from participating in sports, he or she may work with you to resolve the issue or refer you to a specialist who can. According to Texas A&M University, scheduling your sports physical four to eight weeks before the start of the season gives you adequate time to address and resolve concerns so you may continue with your sport.

Do I still have to get a regular physical?

A sports physical does not replace a regular physical or routine checkup, according to the National Library of Medicine. To be prepared for your appointment, ask your doctor when your next routine physical is due and what might be on the yearly physical exam checklist.

Who needs a sports physical?

According to the National Institutes of Health, schools usually require children and teens who want to participate in sports to have a sports physical before the start of the new school year or sports season. A sports physical may be beneficial if you participate in community sports and activities. Check with your doctor before engaging in any athletic activity to see if you or your child requires a sports physical.