Spring Sports Physicals

Spring may not have sprung yet, but it’s right around the corner. Soon it will be time to get out those lacrosse sticks and baseball bats.

Before you dust off the equipment, though, be sure your athlete gets a pre-participation physical examination. Often, this physical is required, but even if it’s not, it’s still a good idea.

Though it covers much of the same territory, a sports physical is different from a regular check-up. This examination seeks to determine an athlete’s health and readiness as it relates to a particular sport. So, special emphasis is placed on assessing how certain conditions, such as asthma, will impact the player’s ability to safely participate.

The physical requires a thorough medical history, including questions about allergies, asthma, heart problems, high blood pressure, dizziness, skin conditions, diabetes, epilepsy, headaches, eating disorders, past injuries and surgeries, vision problems, liver or kidney disorders, medication use and family history. The exam also includes checking or testing: height, weight, pulse, blood pressure, heart, lungs, neurological function, vision, hearing, ears, nose and throat, and joint and spinal health.

Based on the results of the exam, the health care provider will determine if the athlete is fit to play (or not), or fit with certain restrictions or modifications, such as having an inhaler on hand.

It’s smart to get in for the pre-participation exam a few weeks before the sport begins practicing in case follow-up testing or treatment is necessary.

Participating in sports is a great way for kids to get the exercise they need to grow up strong and healthy, and a sports physical before the season starts is an important step in helping your child make the most of these fun activities.

Doctors Express of Timonium offers sports physicals seven days a week. Just walk in, no appointment required.

Be well!