What is a Sports Physical?
A sports physical, known in the medical field as a pre-participation physical examination (PPE), helps to determine whether or not a child (or adult) is physically able to participate in a sport safely. In addition to most schools requiring a sports physical, they are also important to consider as an adult prior to starting a new exercise routine or sport.
It’s important to note that a sports physical does not take the place of a regular annual checkup or physical because a sports physical focuses on health history that may have a direct impact on a child’s ability to play a sport. While a sports physical does typically cover much of what happens during an annual physical or exam, it’s still important to schedule a separate annual checkup for your little one in addition to any physicals that may be required for participation in sports.
At Aptiva Health, we provide sports physicals in both our General Medicine and Sports Medicine departments.
What to Expect During a Physical
Your healthcare provider will want to know about your health, your family's health, your medical problems, and what medicines you take. The sports physical also includes a comprehensive physical examination that is similar to your annual checkup, but with some added things that relate to playing sports. Your healthcare provider will focus on the health of your lungs, heart, bones, and joints. Your healthcare provider will also:
Measure your height and weight
Measure your blood pressure and pulse
Test your vision
Check your heart, lungs, belly, ears, nose, and throat
Check your joints, strength, flexibility, and posture
Your healthcare provider may also ask about:
Your diet
Your use of drugs, alcohol, and supplements
Your menstrual periods if you're a girl or woman
Who Needs a Sports Physical?
Most states require all student athletes to complete a sports physical before participating in any school-sanctioned sport. However, non-student athletes playing in club or recreational sports may also be required to pass a sports physical before they’re eligible to hit the field. Kids are often sent home with the necessary forms – but we know that more often than not, papers get lost somewhere between math class and the bus stop. Coaches and school administrators are often your best resource for information related to any required sports physicals. Our healthcare providers are knowledgeable regarding the state mandated forms and have them readily available if you have not been given a school or sport specific form.