What happens during a Sports Physical?

The Sports Physical helps determine whether it is safe for student-athletes to participate in their choice of sports. Many states need children and teens to get a Sports Physical to allow them to play any sports. You may visit a family clinic Nashville to get your sports physicals done. This blog will provide you with a brief overview of what sports physicals include and why they are important.

What is included in a Sports Physical?

The Sports Physicals comprises two main aspects – medical history and the physical exam. Let's discuss further what they include.

Medical History

Your healthcare provider at a medical clinic in Nashville will give you a medical history form. You can bring this form home, fill it up, and submit it to your doctor. Otherwise, you need to bring the following medical details to your doctor.

·         Whether you are allergic to any substance and what reactions do you experience

·         The list of immunization shots you have taken and the dates on which you took them

·         The list of medications you are currently taking (if any), such as over-the-counter, prescription, supplements such as vitamins, minerals, etc.

·         Whether you use contact lenses, dental appliances, have piercings, etc.

·         Whether you have any past or existing health conditions, such as asthma, diabetes, etc

·         Any past injuries, such as concussion, sprains, dislocated or broken bones, etc.

·         Any past surgeries or hospitalizations you might have

·         If you have ever felt dizzy, passed out, experience chest pain, or had difficulty breathing during exercises

·         Medical conditions that run in the family, including deaths caused due to exercise or sports

·         Doctors may also ask male students about their testicle pain. Similarly, they might ask female students about their menstrual pain.

·         Healthcare professionals may also ask students about their smoking or vaping habits and whether they consume any drug, alcohol, or performance-enhancing supplements, such as steroids.

We advise you to provide your doctor honest answer. If you are unsure of answers to any of these questions, it is better to talk to your family to get the correct answer and provide your doctor with the same. It is in your best interest not to give your doctor wrong answers, as it might cause health complications for you in the long run.

Physical Exams

The physical exams for Sports Physicals are somewhat similar to the annual health checkup. Your doctor at a sierra family healthcare clinic will check the following aspects of your physical health during the checkup. They will

·         Measure your height and weight

·         Check your pulse rate and blood pressure

·         Check your ears, nose, throat, abdomen, heart and lungs

·         Check your joints, posture, strength and mobility

Importance of Sports Physicals

Sports Physicals are critical in identifying possible health issues that might affect your performance. Moreover, they might increase your possibility of getting injured when playing specific sports. Therefore, to play your sport safely without the risk of accidents or injuries, student-athletes must get sports physicals. Your doctor might also provide you with additional training tips or recommend exercises to improve your overall health and prevent injuries.

Therefore, you must visit a family practice Nashville, TN, to get your Sports Physicals done. It will help you learn about your health and take steps to improve them to play sports safely. Further, you can also avoid injuries while playing.