Kids participating in athletics through school, a park district, or another organization should see their pediatric provider for a sports physical. Even if the athletic program does not require a sports physical, it shouldn’t be skipped. Sports physicals ensure your young athlete is in good health and can safely participate in athletics. Dr. Laurie Molina, Karina Chagolla, FNP-BC, and Caroline Gabriel, FNP-C, the board-certified Physicians at Sweetwater Pediatrics in Sugar Land, TX, provide sports physicals to ensure kids are healthy enough to play sports. 

Importance of Sports Physicals

There are several reasons why sports physicals for kids are important and should not be skipped. These physicals help promote safe participation in sports and athletics by ensuring young athletes are healthy prior to participating in physical activities. 

Some health issues doctors often screen for during a sports physical include:

• Asthma
• Heart murmur
• Vision or eye problems
• Irregularities with heart rhythm 
• Vascular abnormalities 
• Mental health concerns
• Problems with sleeping
• Problems with the joints
• Spinal abnormalities
• Menstrual issues
• Hernias 

It is important to identify potential health issues before getting involved in sports, such as the need for glasses if there are vision issues. The discovery of a health concern doesn’t mean your child will be unable to participate. Identification of the problem in advance allows it to be addressed so a treatment plan can be developed that allows for safe participation. For example, kids with asthma should always have a portable rescue inhaler on hand during athletic activities. 

Sports physicals can also contribute to injury prevention. There is a risk of injury with certain types of sports and activities. Your child’s pediatric provider can offer recommendations for preventing injuries, such as wearing a helmet, mouthguard, or other protective gear depending on the sport or activity. The doctor may also be able to help with understanding how to ensure you get the right fit for whatever protective gear your child needs. 

What to Expect During a Sports Physical

At our pediatric office in Sugar Land, TX, sports physicals have several components to ensure kids are in good health. Sports physicals consist of a review of individual and family medical histories, a brief mental health screening, and a physical examination. Some key areas that are checked during the physical examination include:

• Blood pressure 
• Height and weight
• Heart rate or pulse
• Lungs and breathing 
• Ears, eyes, nose, and throat
• Reflexes and posture 
• Muscles and joints
• Vision and hearing

Sports physicals for kids ensure they are healthy enough to safely participate in sports and other physical activities. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Molina, Karina Chagolla, FNP-BC, or Caroline Gabriel, FNP-C, for your children’s sports physicals by calling Physicians at Sweetwater Pediatrics in Sugar Land, TX, at (281) 265-2272.