High school sports offer teens a chance to stay active, build confidence, and develop teamwork and leadership skills. While physical activity is essential for growing bodies and minds, it’s just as important to protect student-athletes from unnecessary health risks. That’s why many states require high school sports participants to complete a physical health exam before participating in a sports team. In this blog, we will discuss the importance of sports physicals for high school athletes and what families need to know.
What Is a Sports Physical?
The purpose of a sports physical is to assess the overall health and wellness of an individual to ensure they can safely participate in sports. They are often required by schools, camps, and other organized activity groups for children ages 6 to 17.
What to Expect During the Exam
During a sports physical, a healthcare provider will ask questions regarding medical history, physical fitness, and lifestyle habits. They will also perform an examination to assess the height, weight, eyesight, heart and lung function, range of motion, and spine health of a patient. At the end of the appointment, they will either clear a high school athlete for sports or refer them for further evaluation.
How Does a Sports Physical Differ From a Normal Exam?
A sports physical is very similar to a typical exam from a primary care provider. A typical exam focuses on the overall health and wellness of an individual as well as disease prevention. A sports physical is more focused on musculoskeletal and cardiovascular system health to prevent sports-related injuries. Sports physicals are not a substitute for regular checkups.
Are Physicals Required for High School Sports?
Specific sports physical requirements are dependent on state and school district specific policies, but they are required for a majority of high school sports athletes. Even if your child isn’t required to have a sports physical, it’s a good idea to take a preventative approach and screen for any underlying health concerns before they participate in a sport.
Where to Get a Sports Physical
Your family’s primary care doctor can perform sports physicals for your student with knowledge of their full health background. Many urgent care clinics also offer sports physicals without the need for an appointment.
Tips for Parents and Students
To make the most of your sports physical appointment, preparation is key. Here are some helpful tips to keep in mind:
- Keep records of past sports physicals
- Bring the official school or district physical form to the appointment
- Prepare questions ahead of time
- Schedule an appointment far enough in advance to meet exam deadlines
Sports physicals play a critical role in keeping student-athletes healthy, safe, and ready to perform at their best. These exams help detect potential health concerns early and ensure students are physically prepared for the demands of their sport.
Integrity Urgent Care is here to help your family get on top of physical requirements and support your child’s health. No appointments are needed for sports physicals with our dedicated team of healthcare professionals. Find a convenient location near you.
