Sports Physicals: How Often Should Your Child Get One

With a new sports season upon us, it’s that time of year again to make sure that your child has an up-to-date physical. Sports physicals ensure that your child is healthy and capable of participating in a certain sports activity. This exam will look at your child’s medical history as well as their physical fitness to ensure that they are physically well enough to participate in any sports activity.  

Benefits of Physical Activity

The CDC (Center for Disease Control and Prevention) recommends around 60 minutes of physical activity daily in children and adolescents. This is recommended to build muscle and bone strength as well as diminish any symptoms of anxiety or depression. Consistent exercise can reduce the chances of developing health issues such as heart disease, cancer, obesity, type 2diabetes, Osteoporosis, and high blood pressure in children and adolescents. Children who don’t exercise regularly are more likely to have less energy and a higher possibility of developing a cardiovascular disease like high cholesterol. 

What Happens at a Sports Physical

At the exam, your child’s height, weight, and blood pressure will be recorded. Next, the doctor will test your child’s vision and assess the ears, nose and throat; then, the  physician will check your child’s heart and lungs. After that, your child’s posture, strength, joints, and flexibility will be evaluated. Your child’s physician will also ask a series of questions in order to have a good understanding of their medical history. It’s important to be diligent when answering questions on family health history as some conditions can be hereditary. At the end of the exam, the doctor will either fill out the forms to clear your child to participate in sports activities or explain the next steps to take in order to get your child in the best health possible. 

Why Sports Physicals Are Important 

While sports of any kind can keep your child physically fit, they can also be hard on your child’s body. This is especially important if your child has any underlying medical conditions such as diabetes, asthma, or any health concern that could interfere with playing a sport. At a sports physical, your child’s physician can advise your child on ways to take care of their body while being physically active and prevent them from getting hurt. If your child is being physically active, it is important to monitor growth and development as well as seize every opportunity to catch any illness that could make participating in a sport dangerous to their health. 

How Often Your Child Should Get a Sports Physical

To keep your child healthy and prevent any long-term health issues, it is recommended by the CDC that your child have a sports physical annually even if it’s not required by the school. It is best to be sure to monitor your child’s development in order to ensure that they are healthy enough to participate in sports activities.

Sports Physicals Near Me

Even if your child’s school offers sports physicals on campus, it is recommended that you seek out the best doctor for you and your family and schedule an appointment on your own. When searching for for a physician to conduct your child’s sports physical, look no further than BASS Primary Care. We at BASS Primary Care offer a variety of services and are available for all of your non-emergency medical needs. At BASS Primary Care pride ourselves on providing quality care for all of our patients. 

For more information on sports physicals and other services we provide To schedule your appointment with us, give us a call at (925) 962-9120 or visit our website to make an appointment today!