A sports physical is a type of physical examination that focuses on preparatory measures to ensure safety in sports participation and physical activity.

These physicals are most well known for their benefits ahead of participating in a sporting event, for which they are sometimes required.

However, they also serve individuals looking to start a new exercise regimen, particularly those moving from a sedentary lifestyle to a more active one. Sports physicals are especially common among children, where schools or sporting leagues often require them as a prerequisite for participation.

The purpose of these physicals is to promote safety in physical activities, reduce the risk of injury, and identify any underlying conditions that may affect an individual’s ability to participate in athletic activities safely.

At a child’s sports physical exam at PrimeHealth Urgent Care, the provider will comprehensively review the child’s medical history. This includes discussing medical problems that run in the family, previous hospitalizations or surgeries, any underlying health conditions, allergies, past injuries, and any medications the child is currently taking.

A physical examination follows, where the provider checks the child’s height and weight, conducts vision tests, and examines the bones, muscles, and joints.

The examination also includes checks of the heart, lungs, pulse, and blood pressure to ensure everything is functioning properly. When all checks are cleared, the provider will sign any necessary forms for the student’s school or sports league.

If any issues are detected during the examination, treatments may be recommended, or additional safety measures may be implemented to help promote health and wellness during physical activities.

This is also an opportunity for parents and children to ask any questions they may have and receive comprehensive preventative safety guidance, including advice on appropriate physical activities and sporting equipment to ensure comprehensive safety.

Both sports physicals and regular physicals are important forms of preventative health and wellness, involving physical examinations that can detect several health issues and facilitate early treatment interventions.

However, a sports physical is more specifically focused on an individual’s ability to safely participate in physical activities and sports. It assesses an individual’s current fitness level, reviews any pre-existing injuries, and examines any underlying health conditions that may pose risks during sports participation.

On the other hand, a regular physical is broader, focusing on the overall health of the individual. It includes additional aspects of a child’s health such as developmental, social, and emotional well-being, measuring social and cognitive milestones, and reviewing immunizations, blood work, nutrition, and sleep habits, among others.

In some cases, a sports physical can be included as part of a regular physical examination, depending on the individual’s health needs and lifestyle.

Children lead active lifestyles that increase their susceptibility to all manner of bumps, bruises, falls, and acute injuries, especially when they participate in sports, camp activities, or any physical activities at school.

Sports physicals are vital because they help identify injuries or underlying illnesses that might prevent children from participating in sports safely or necessitate further safety measures.

Providers at facilities like PrimeHealth Urgent Care can also use sports physicals to recommend training tips, physical therapy, or exercises to manage pre-existing limitations or avoid further injuries.

Even in instances where sports physicals are not mandatory for participation, they play an important role in ensuring the child’s health and safety, promoting positive outcomes, and enhancing their experience. This comprehensive approach helps ensure that children remain safe while promoting their physical, emotional, and social wellness through active participation in sports and other physical activities.

If you participate in sports, you may need to have a physical. A sports physical is a doctor’s appointment to ensure that you are safe to participate in the sport of your choice. Sports physicals are available at PrimeHealth Urgent Care. For more information, contact us or request an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 5660 Fishhawk Crossing Blvd, Lithia, FL 33547. We serve patients from Lithia FL, Balm FL, Keysville FL, Hopewell FL, and surrounding areas.