Importance of Sports Physicals for Young Athletes

Sports physicals, or preparticipation physical evaluations (PE), are necessary to ensure a young athlete's safety when performing their chosen sport. Though they may seem intimidating, these evaluations can greatly improve athletes' chances of qualifying for their desired sport and help them better adjust to pain points within their performance and body. Learning what to expect during a sports physical can help athletes better prepare for an upcoming appointment.

Everything you need to know about sports physicals

What is a sports physical?

Put simply, a sports physical determines whether an athlete can safely perform the tasks and activities required by a specific sport. It is usually divided into three parts: the medical history review, the eye exam, and the physical examination.

Medical history review

The medical history review requires some preparation on the patient's or parents' behalf. Document familial or previous histories of heart conditions, head trauma, neurological conditions, and respiratory issues. Note that alerting the provider will not automatically disqualify a patient from participation, but it is necessary for the provider to consider the patient's overall safety. Also, create a list or bring current medications and supplements, frequency of use, and their dosages.

Some providers require urinalysis and blood tests to check for certain conditions that can threaten the athlete's health or those with whom they come in close contact. Depending on their age, female athletes may require a pregnancy test. All patients, regardless of gender, may be tested for conditions transmitted by sweat or spit, but this can also depend on the desired sport.

Eye exam

The provider will check the athlete's vision to determine if prescription eyewear is necessary. Typically, they use the Snellen chart or Big E chart. They may also test how well the eyes work together by having the patient focus on various objects in the provider's hand or around the room.

Physical Examination

The physical examination will take up the bulk of the appointment time. The provider will start by checking the patient's vitals while resting, which include heart rate, blood pressure, respiratory rate, and temperature. They also check the patient's weight and height.

Moving along, the provider will test the patient's reflexes before coaching them through a series of tasks. These tasks are typically related to the physical exertion involved in their desired sport. Tasks can include but are not limited to the following:

• Running in place
• Stretches
• Jumping jacks
• Push-ups

Who needs a sports physical?

While anyone who physically exerts themselves on a daily or almost daily basis can benefit from a sports physical, they are especially beneficial and likely required for the following:

• Individuals with underlying medical conditions
• Student-athletes
• Recreational athletes

While parents typically ask coaches or school administration for a list of places to take their child for a sports physical, young adults who wish to play recreational sports may not know where to begin; we can help. Millennium Medical Care Manassas offers sports physicals for anyone living in or around the Manassas area.

Ensure you are prepared for the upcoming season

Sports physicals are incredibly important, as they ensure you can physically handle all a sport requires. If you or a loved one needs a sports physical, contact us or drop by our office. We provide these evaluations to those living in Manassas and its surrounding areas.

Request an appointment here: https://hoadly.millenniummedicalcare.com or call Millennium Medical Care Manassas at (703) 673-1558 for an appointment in our Downey office.

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