Sports Physical
Sports physicals which are also called pre-participation physicals, are a great way to make sure an athlete can safely play. Even if your school or state doesn’t require it, a sports physical also help to keep immunizations up to date and provide an opportunity to discuss any concerns you may have.
The two main parts to a sports physical are the medical history and the physical exam.
MEDICAL HISTORY
This part of the exam includes questions about:
- Serious illnesses among family members
- Illnesses that you had when you were younger or may have now, such as asthma, diabetes, or epilepsy
- Allergies to insect bites, for example
- Past injuries including concussions, sprains, or bone fractures
- Whether you’ve ever passed out, felt dizzy, had chest pain, or had trouble breathing during exercise
- Any medications that you are on (including over-the-counter medications, herbal supplements, and prescription medications
- Previous hospitalizations or surgery
- Serious illnesses among family members
- Illnesses that you had when you were younger or may have now, such as asthma, diabetes, or epilepsy
- Allergies to insect bites, for example
- Past injuries including concussions, sprains, or bone fractures
- Whether you’ve ever passed out, felt dizzy, had chest pain, or had trouble breathing during exercise
- Any medications that you are on (including over-the-counter medications, herbal supplements, and prescription medications
- Previous hospitalizations or surgery
Physical Examination
During the physical examination part, your medical provider will:
- Record your weight and height
- Take a blood pressure and pulse; heart rate and rhythm
- Test your vision
- Check your lungs, heart, ears, throat, nose, and abdomen
- Evaluate your joints, flexibility, strength, and posture