The University of Kentucky Office of Public Affairs and Strategic Communications provides a weekly health column that can be used and reprinted by news media. This week’s column is by Scott Black, MD, clinical director for University Health Services at the University of Kentucky.
Lexington, Kentucky (July 22, 2024) — The potential benefits of getting your child involved in sports are countless, including improved physical fitness, learning how to overcome adversity, and potentially building lifelong friendships.
But sports also come with inherent risks. From the intensity of competition to the physical demands of training, athletes are at risk for a range of injuries, from minor muscle strains to more serious problems like cardiac arrhythmias.
That’s why sports physicals should be at the top of your annual pre-season checklist. Not only are sports physicals often required by states and schools before participation in sports, they’re also essential for preventing injuries and finding pre-existing conditions that could keep an athlete from competing.
What happens during a sports physical?
While they are not a substitute for an annual physical exam or checkup, a sports physical is similar in that a healthcare provider will perform a pre-participation physical for your child to assess whether they can safely participate in sports.
Doctors and other health care providers, such as nurses and physician assistants, may ask about your child’s medical history by asking:
- Known health problems, such as asthma or diabetes
- Previous injuries such as concussions or fractures
- allergy
- Possible health problems within the family
- Medications your child may be taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements
- Their diet
As part of your physical exam, your healthcare provider will typically:
- Record your child’s height and weight
- Check your blood pressure
- Listen to their breathing and heartbeat
- Test your reflexes, muscles, bones and joints
- Test their eyesight
If the doctor determines your child is healthy enough to compete, they will allow him to do so. If they find any issues, they may recommend a treatment plan or refer your child to a specialist for further evaluation.
We recommend scheduling your child’s sports physical a few weeks before the school year begins so that if there is an issue, your child can begin treatment well before the season begins.
Where can I get a sports physical?
Many families go to their family doctor for a sports physical. Some schools or clinics offer free sports physicals on certain days, but the exam may not be as personal, especially if your child doesn’t already know the doctor.
Do I still need to get tested?
A sports physical is similar to, but not the same as, an annual physical, which is very important to make sure your child’s development is on track, vaccinations are up to date, and they are generally healthy.
A sports physical isn’t a substitute for a medical exam, but you can ask your healthcare provider if one can be performed at the same time.
Participating in sports helps your child develop beneficial habits, forms lifelong memories, and, if they’re talented enough, might even be able to turn sports into a career. But none of that would be possible without a sports physical.
