Does Your Child Need a School or Sports Physical?
Is your child planning on playing any sports this school year? If so, the school will probably require your child to have a sports physical done before he or she can play. School and sports physicals help make sure that players are in good health before they play, in an effort to avoid injuries and the effects of other potentially harmful medical conditions. Here is the information you need to know before you visit Tullahoma Pediatrics or Manchester Pediatrics for your child's sports physical.
What Should My Child Expect at a Physical?
Your child's sports physical will consist of two main parts. First, the doctor will take your child's medical history and family medical history, and then he or she will perform a physical examination of your child.
When acquiring your child's medical history, the doctor will want to know about any serious illnesses or injuries your child has had in the past, any substances your child is currently allergic to and the types of medication your child is on. The doctor will also want to know about any previous surgeries or hospitalizations your child has had, as well as about any suspicious symptoms such as dizziness, chest pain and difficulty breathing.
During the physical exam,
The doctor will measure your child's height and weight, take your child's blood pressure and listen to your child's heart and lungs. The doctor will also feel your child's abdomen and look in your child's nose, eyes and throat. Your child may have a vision screening or urinalysis done as well. Depending on the results of these tests, the doctor may prescribe further tests as needed.
Sports post Covid-19
Annual sports physicals are required by TSSAA prior to sports participation. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American College of Cardiology, children who had Covid19 symptoms for four days or more require a cardiology evaluation before they can be cleared to play sports. Pediatric cardiologists will be very busy because of this requirement, and you will likely have to wait for an appointment with them. It is important that you schedule your child's sport physical with us now, so that we can refer to the cardiologist and complete the physical in time for your child to play in their sport. Call us now to schedule (931) 455-2674. Do not procrastinate!
What Should I Bring?
When visiting the doctor for your child's sports physical, you will need to bring the following:
- Child's medical records, including a current copy of their immunizations record
- List of your child's known allergies
- List of any medications your child is on currently
- Insurance card
- The physical form your child's school needs to have filled out
Be sure to write down any questions or concerns you may have ahead of time so you don't forget them during your appointment.
Royal Pediatrics is committed to helping you keep your child healthy--both when your child is sick and when your child is well, and visiting Royal Pediatrics for a sports physical is a great way to make sure that your child is healthy enough to play sports and to solve any problems if he or she is not.
For more information on how to get your child a school or sports physical, call Tullahoma Pediatrics or Manchester Pediatrics at (931) 455-2674.