In the field of sports medicine, the sports physical is known as a sports pre-participation exam (PPE). The test helps determine if it is safe for your child to participate in sports activities. Most states require children and adolescents have a physical before starting a sport or when they begin a new season. Sometimes a PPE is not required, but doctors recommend getting one anyway just to be safe. If your children need sports physicals in Logan, now would be a great time to get them.
The two main parts of a sports physical examination are the physical examination and medical history. Before visiting the doctor, have your child’s health history available.
The medical history covers things like:
- Serious illness of family members
- Diseases you had during your childhood or those you have now. These can range from diabetes to epilepsy to asthma.
- Allergies (Hay Fever or bee stings, for example)
- Hospitalizations or surgeries
- Past injuries (which include concussions, sprains or broken bones)
- If you have ever felt dizzy or passed out, or have had difficulty breathing during exercise
- Medications you are on (includes all kinds)
These questions are on a form you can take home, so parents can help complete it. If possible, a parent’s medical history may also be requested to identify specific issues that are hereditary in nature.
The physical exam is the second part of Sports Physicals in Logan. A physical exam, or clinical exam (more popularly known as a check-up), is the practice by which doctors look over a patient’s body for signs of possible disease. Together with the patient’s medical history, a physical exam aids in correctly diagnosing and treating the patient. This data will become part of the patient’s permanent medical record.
In the US, a physical exam usually happens once a year. Complete physical examinations typically include lab tests, pulmonary function testing, audiograms, urinalysis, and other various tests depending on gender and age. The best part of being a child is the ability to play sports. Having a sports physical is the only way to do this. Contact Alder Grove Pediatrics for more information.
