Everything You Ought To Know About Sports Physicals

Engaging in sporting activities keeps you fit, right? However, playing sports strains your body and increases your risk of sporting injuries. Therefore, as part of taking care of yourself, you need spring sports physicals to evaluate and deal with health issues that interfere with your sporting performance. Usually, your doctor will recommend the exams at least six weeks before your sporting season. Sports physicals are a good way to deal with health issues as soon as they begin and allow you to return to your sporting activity. Read the discussion below to learn about sports physicals and everything it involves.

When Do You Need Sports Physicals and Why?

You need sports physicals if you are an active person who engages in team sports and strenuous activity and is starting a workout program. Also, your doctor will recommend sports physicals before participating in a sporting activity to check if you are set for the field. Sports physicals will help your doctor address health issues that may affect your performance and increase your risk for sports injuries. Your child will need sports physicals before joining a sporting activity. Sports physicals are a great way for you and your child to catch up with your doctor and keep your health information current.

After How Long Will You Need Sports Physicals?

You may need to schedule your sports physicals six weeks before your sporting activity. The duration will allow your doctor enough time to perform tests and develop the necessary treatment plan if they find a problem. Generally, your sports physicals will work for up to one year while checking for changes in your health history.

What Can You Expect During Sports Physicals?

Your doctor will review your family and personal medical history during your visit. You will answer questions about medical conditions running in your family, current medical conditions, previous surgeries, past injuries, allergies, and current medications. Next, your doctor will perform a physical exam which includes recording your weight and height, checking blood pressure and pulse, and checking your heart and lungs. Also, your doctor will test your vision, ears, nose, and throat and examine your bones, muscles, and joints to check your range of motion. Additionally, your doctor will recommend an electrocardiogram to evaluate your heart health and its functionality.

What Happens If There Is a Problem During Sports Physicals?

Your doctor will recommend medications, follow-up exams, more tests, and physical therapy in case they find a problem during your exams. Rarely will your doctor find conditions that interfere with your ability to engage in your sporting activity. Your doctor may recommend switching to another sporting activity if one is causing you many problems, like concussions. Sports physicals will not replace the need for annual wellness visits because it focuses on your overall health and wellness.

Sports physicals, also called preparticipation physical evaluation, are important to ensure your wellness and health before going to the field. So, as an active sportsperson, you need sports physicals to determine if you are safe to engage in sporting activities. During your exams, you will catch up with your doctor, talk about your current health, and keep your health information up to date. You will undergo a medical review, personal and family medical history, eye exams, checking your heart and lung function, and examining your flexibility and muscles.