Every participant in a school sports team must have a sports physical exam. Statcare Urgent Medical Care offers physicals at all our locations. These special types of physicals are made up of two parts:
- A medical history
- physical examination
Doctors use sports physicals to evaluate general health, current fitness level, risk of injury and physical well-being. This exam allows the doctor to identify conditions that might affect physical fitness and performance. Physicals are important. Therefore, athletes should have a physical six weeks before the start of the season. However, this can vary from school to school. This timing provides an opportunity to address an existing injury. It can also help your child improve their conditioning before the season.
Our healthcare providers perform physicals at all our locations. Notify the provider of any previous hospitalizations or surgeries, past injuries, and allergies. Also, let them know your child’s family history of physical illness. These things will help the physical run smoothly.
Even if your child has received a general physical, it is important to also receive a sports physical prior to participation in sports or physical activity. Sports physicals are more specific. They focus on the physical requirements needed to play a sport. These exams focus on the safety of playing sports for each player. \ If your child is involved in any kind of physical activity on an on-going basis, it is recommended they receive a sports physical annually.
What to bring to the exam?
- Your child’s eye glasses if they wear one.
- Your child’s immunization records.
What to expect at the sports physical
You might have to answer questions about the following. Therefore, prepare to have answers beforehand. This will make your appointment go quicker.
- Serious illnesses among other family members.
- Past illnesses, injuries, hospitalizations and surgeries.
- The names and doses of medications your child is on.
Physical Exam
- Height, weight, blood pressure and pulse measurement.
- Vision check.
- Heart, lung, abdomen, ear, nose and throat examination.
- Posture, joints, strength and flexibility assessment.
Dizziness, chest pain, and problems breathing can be serious. Therefore, make sure you inform the provider if your child has had these issues during exercise.
At the end of the visit, your healthcare provider will stamp the medical forms required.
When you visit Statcare Urgent Medical Care, you can get your child’s sports physical the same day. Plus, you can avoid long lines. You can even check in online prior to your visit. We are open 7 days a week. You do not need an appointment. With extended hours, Statcare Urgent Medical Care makes it easy to receive a physical and return to the game. Walk in and be seen now!
