The first day of spring is right around the corner, and it is about that time to play ball! Is your child planning on participating in a sport this spring? Our team at AFC Urgent Care Fountain City wants you to know the benefits that come with children participating in sports, as well as why it is important for your child to get a sports physical before the start of the season.

Are Sports Good for Kids?

Sports are a wonderful way for children to get the physical activity they need—around 60 minutes per day. This helps promote healthy growth and development and reduces the risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes and heart disease. In addition to the health benefits, there are a number of other benefits of children playing sports, especially when it comes to their mental and emotional health.

Benefits of Children Participating in Sports

• Better vision
• Healthy weight
• Motor skills development
• Social skills development
• Self-confidence
• Sportsmanship
• Fun and enjoyment
• Friendship

Why Does My Child Need a Sports Physical?

For the most part, children are able to participate in sports. However, there are certain medical conditions (like heart problems) that could make participating in sports or another type of physical activity more risky. That’s why the sports physical is important. Unlike the annual well-child checkup, the sports physical is specifically focused on determining your child’s ability to face the physical strain of participating in sports. That means it will look at your child’s overall health, with a specific emphasis on the heart, lungs and bone health.

Parts of a Sports Physical

• Height and weight check
• Blood pressure and pulse check
• Vision test
• Review of the heart, lungs, abdomen, ears, nose and throat
• Evaluation of posture, joint health, strength and flexibility

Is your child participating in a sport this spring? Visit AFC Urgent Care Fountain City today to complete a sports physical before the season starts! No appointment is necessary.