Blog Post

Why Regular Sports Physicals are a Must for Young Athletes

Sep 04, 2017

Think that sports physicals is just for pro athletes? Think again! Sports are usually seen as an activities that will boost your child’s health, development and sociality. However, many parents don’t realize that sports can be dangerous too. Sports can be harmful and can even result in permanent injury if a child is pushed too hard or if a child’s body just isn’t ready to take on a certain physical activity. Sport’s physicals are important for young athletes to excel without jeopardizing their health and well being.

About Sports Physicals

Sports physicals. or a pre-participation physical examination (PPE). is performed by a doctor or medical expert. During this physical the doctor will check the athlete’s overall health, physical fitness level, for symptoms that might result in future health problems. The physician will also ask questions to learn all about the athlete’s health and performance history. The sport’s physical allows the doctor to determine whether a certain type of sports may be most suitable for your child’s well being.

Sports physicals include two major parts;

Medical History

Your child’s medical history is discussed during the examination and the following questions might be asked during the PPE;

  • Family history of serious illnesses
  • Previous illnesses such as asthma, diabetes or epilepsy
  • Any previous surgeries or hospitalizations
  • Allergies (certain foods, medications, supplements or more) as well as family history of allergies
  • Previous injuries such as broken bones, sprains and more
  • A history of chest pains, breathing difficulties during workouts, dizzy or light headed feelings and more.
  • All medications currently and previously taken including herbal or supplementary medications.

Physical Examination

Once the medical history of the child has been concluded the doctor will perform a physical examination which includes the following;

  • Height and weight measurement
  • Blood pressure and heart rate measuring
  • Vision test
  • Thorough check of the lungs, abdomen, ears, nose, throat and heart
  • Check for posture problems and joint problems
  • Check muscle strength and test flexibility

Physical examinations can vary slightly between boys and girls. For example, girls might be enquired about their menstrual cycle, any issues they may be experiencing, and about their nutritional and supplemental intake.

The doctor may also enquire about sports boosters like steroids, supplements, weight loss products and other “home remedies” since these can greatly affect the health of especially younger athletes. It is not uncommon for your child’s doctor to ask about drugs and unhealthy habits.

Once the examination is completed the doctor will either consent that everything is normal, or they may request a follow up session. If problems are detected, the physician may recommend or prescribe treatments to address the issue immediately.

The Importance Of Sports Physicals

Sports physicals are essential for younger athletes to identify any health or medical conditions they might have and find the best possible treatments for these problems. They also help with identifying health problems that might affect sports performance or even result in dangerous medical results if the body is pushed too hard. In addition, sports physicals can provide athletes with advice on the right training routines, supplements, diet, and workouts for their particular sports choice. All this information will help younger athletes avoid sports related injuries that could delay a bright future in sports.


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