We all know that playing sports helps you stay fit. We also know that sports are a lot of fun and a great way to socialize with peers and to meet new people. But most people do not realize the importance and reasoning behind the physical.
The physical exam helps to determine whether or not it is safe for you to participate in a particular sport. Most states actually require that children and teens have a physical prior to beginning a new sport or a new season. Even if it’s not required by the state, doctors highly recommend having one.
There are two main parts to a sport physical: the medical history, and the physical exam.
Medical History
During this portion of the exam you will be asked questions about:
- Any medications you are currently taking (over-the-counter, or prescription)
- Past injures (including, but not limited to, concussions, sprains, and/or bone fractures)
- Allergies
- Previous surgeries or hospitalizations
- Illnesses that you have or had in the past (asthma, diabetes, epilepsy, etc.)
- Serious illness among family members
- Whether or not you have ever passed out, felt dizzy, had chest pains, or trouble breathing during exercise
The medical history questions can usually be found on the form that is sent home with you. Looking at illnesses in your family can be a good indicator to possible conditions that you may have. Most doctors believe that the medical history portion is the most important part of the physical, so please take time to answer these questions honestly and accurately. It is very unlikely that any conditions you have will prevent you from playing sports.
Physical Examination
During the physical part of the exam, your doctor will usually:
- Record your height and weight
- Take blood pressure and pulse
- Test your eyesight
- Check heart, lungs, abdomen, ears, nose, and throat
- Check posture, joints, strength, and flexibility
Although most aspects of the exam are the same for males and females, if a person is going through or gone through puberty, males and females may be asked different questions. For example, if a female is heavily involved in sports, she may be asked about her period and diet. The doctor will also ask you questions regarding the use of drugs, alcohol, or dietary supplements, such as steroids or other performance enhancers, as these can affect a person’s health.
At the end of the exam, the doctor will fill out and sign your form if everything is okay, or in rare cases, recommend a follow up exam or additional testing.
If you do not get the OK, this does not mean you won’t ever be able to play sports. Don’t worry if the doctor asks for further testing, it could be something as simple as rechecking your blood pressure in a week or two. It is very unlikely that you will be disqualified to play sports. The mail goal of the physical is to ensure safe participation in sports. Fewer than 1% of students have a condition that might limit their sports participation, and a majority of those students are aware of these conditions before ever having a physical.
Even if you physical does not reveal any problems, it is always a good idea to monitor yourself while playing sports. If you happen to notice any changes in your physical condition, no matter how small you may think they are, be sure to mention them to your parents or coach. Just as professional sports athletes need medical care to keep them playing their best, so do teenage athletes. You can give yourself the same edge as the pros by making sure you get your sports physical.
Whether it’s a sport’s physical or a college physical, Stout Wellness Center is the place to go! Do you know someone who needs a school physical? Look no further. We provide sports physicals at the low price of $25 and college physicals for $75 (major medical insurance companies do not cover these services). Please call our office for a preferred physical appointment. Preferred appointments are available on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 3:30 pm to 5:30 pm during the month of July; special appointments can be made at other times if needed. And remember, any individual under the age of 18 must have a parent or legal guardian accompany them during the physical.