What Does a Sports Physical Consist Of?
If your child is due for a sports physical, you may be wondering what exactly this exam will consist of. For example, how does it differ from an annual physical, and why is it necessary? Let’s take a closer look at what happens during a sports physical.
First, your child’s clinician will review his or her medical history, including what vitamins, supplements, or medicines her or she may be taking. The next part is a brief physical exam, which involves evaluating:
- Height and weight
- Blood pressure and pulse
- Vision
- Joints
- Muscle and bone health
- Flexibility
- Ears
- The abdomen
- Respiratory health
Sports physicals are an important part of an active child’s healthcare routine, as they help clinicians ensure kids are well enough to safely participate in their favorite athletic activities. Differing slightly from an annual physical, a sports physical is focused on health as it relates to physical movement. Your child’s clinician will be able to spot potential concerns during this physical and recommend appropriate next steps, which may include medical treatment, digital X-ray imaging, or a clinical lab test.
Sports Physicals at Fast Track Urgent Care
The board-certified clinicians at Fast Track Urgent Care in Silver Spring and Kensington offer sports physicals to kids and teens every day on a walk-in basis! There’s no need to squeeze in an appointment at an overbooked primary care center when we offer convenient daytime, evening, and weekend hours. And, our centers are equipped with digital X-ray machines and clinical labs, so you can be assured your little athlete can receive all the services he or she may require in one location. Stop by today! We’re here to answer any questions you may have.
