Tag Archive for: sports

Spring Sports Physicals Available!

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Participating in sports is not just a great way to improve health and physical fitness but also an opportunity to build confidence and make new friends. If your child is participating in a spring sport as their first sport this school year, they are likely due for a sports physical.

What is a Sports Physical?

A sports physical includes a detailed medical history and physical exam which helps medical professionals decide if you can safely participate in school sports.

Medical History Review

  • illnesses
  • injuries
  • surgeries
  • allergies
  • family medical history to identify potential risks

Physical Exam

  • check height, weight, pulse, and blood pressure
  • test vision and hearing
  • listen to heart and lungs
  • evaluate joints, flexibility, posture, and strength
  • check eyes, ears, nose, throat, and abdomen
  • may also include evaluation for scoliosis, hernia, or skin conditions

General Health

  • Discuss nutrition, supplements, and lifestyle

Vaccine Review

  • Check immunization records and determine if there are any past due or upcoming recommended vaccines

Why are Sports Physicals Required?

Sports physicals ensure your child is healthy enough to meet the physical demands associated with competitive sports. For example, a sports physical can help assess issues like concussions, hernias, or asthma as well as help screen for potentially life-threatening conditions like cardiac abnormality. Most schools require all students complete a sports physical before being able to play.

What if Something is Wrong?

If there are any abnormalities or concerns, your primary care provider will help coordinate appropriate additional testing and follow-up. Sometimes it only takes a lab test or meeting with a specialist to obtain sports clearance. Rarely, a condition may be discovered that prohibits participation in a particular sport.

How To Get the Most From Your Visit

  • bring a printed copy of your specific, school-required physical form
  • wear comfortable clothing
  • bring glasses or contacts.
  • be prepared to discuss any past injuries, medications, or ongoing health issues

Request an Appointment

Ready to schedule? Request an appointment with any of our family medicine or pediatric providers online, via MyChart, or call us at 480-882-4545. If your child is also due for a well child visit, ask your scheduler about the possibility of combining these two appointments.

Get a Sports Physical for School

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The beginning of the school year means new opportunities. If your child is starting a sport for the first time, changing sports, or deciding to try a new physical activity outside of class, then it’s time for them to have a sports physical so a medical professional can make sure they are healthy enough to play their new sport or activity safely.

What is a sports physical?

  • Screening for safe and healthy participation in sports and activities.
  • Checking that your child’s body is ready for the physical demands of the activity.

Does my child need a sports physical?

  • Yes. In Arizona it is state law that a student gets a sports physical if they are playing a team or club sport at school.
  • And where it isn’t required, it is highly recommended because almost all kids are active in some way! This exam looks at the physical and mental demands of their sport or activity and can address any concerns related to their health.
  • To make life easier and to have less appointments, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends scheduling a sports physical with your child’s next routine well-child visit.

What happens during the appointment?

  • Bring your child’s completed Pre-Participation Physical Evaluation form with you. Write down any important medical information like past surgeries, injuries, or illnesses, and any family history of heart disease should be reviewed. Write down any questions you may have to discuss with the doctor.
  • At the appointment, the doctor will check your child’s:
    • Vitals: height, weight, pulse, and blood pressure
    • Eyes: if your child may need corrective lenses or a new prescription
    • Medical history
    • Fitness: heart, lungs, abdomen, joints, flexibility, strength, and reflexes             
  • This is also a good time to talk with your child’s doctor about any concerns for your child’s new or ongoing activity or sport, such as:
    • Concussions
    • Special needs or varied abilities       
  • Your NOAH provider may also request lab work for your child or refer them to a specialist for further evaluation. If needed, your NOAH Care Team will help set up the next steps for this, and most children are able to play after this extra clearance.

Safe and healthy participation in sports and physical activities is the goal, so get your child’s physical scheduled with your NOAH provider and enjoy watching them play and have fun.