School will be back in session before we know it! The start of school means the start of fall sports. Before running off to the first soccer practice of the season, it is important that your teenager receives a sports physical.
Why?
A sports physical helps determine if it is safe to participate in a certain sport by identifying health problems that might interfere with participation and working to resolve any problems. For example, if your child has frequent asthma attacks and wants to play soccer, a doctor might be able to prescribe a different type of inhaler or adjust the dosage so that breathing will be easier for them when running. A doctor also can identify risk factors that are linked to specific sports and give advice on certain stretching or strengthening exercises.
What’s the difference between a sports physical and a standard physical?
A sports physical is limited because it is hyper focused on athletic issues, while standard physicals focus on one’s overall well-being, addressing concerns that will not be discussed strictly during a sports physical. Therefore, it is important that your teenager have both a sports physical as well as standard physical. For your convenience, in most cases they can be done at the same time.
Where to get a sports physical?
Many states require students to have sports physicals in order to participate. However, regardless of the state’s requirements, a sports physical is always recommended. Unless there are other concerns or injuries, a yearly sports physical should be adequate. Your child’s school may offer sports physicals which can be convenient, and American Family Care offers sports physicals as well and is open daily with extended hours. Visit americanfamilycare.com to find a location near you.
