Does your child need a physical to participate in a school sport? Sports physicals are one of the services your Milwaukee, WI pediatricians at Best Care Pediatrics, Dr. Sandra Arce-Garzon and Dr. Sergio Casaclang, offer.
Why schools require sports physicals
Health issues aren't always obvious in children. Unfortunately, your child's health may be affected if he or she plays with an undetected condition or injury. Sports physicals offer a little peace of mind to parents and coaches.
What you can expect during a sports physical
At the beginning of the physical, your child's height, weight, and blood pressure will be measured. The pediatrician will perform an examination that will include listening to your child's heart and lungs with a stethoscope and checking his or her ears, eyes, nose, throat, and abdomen.
He or she will also look for issues with your child's bone and joints that could affect his or her ability to play safely, such as scoliosis, joint instability or injury, or flexibility problems. Prior injuries will also be evaluated to ensure that they've healed completely.
The pediatrician will review your child's medical history, allergies, and the medications he or she takes. Be sure to jot down a list of medications before the visit. If this is the first time you will be visiting the medical office, ask your child's previous doctor to send your son or daughter's medical history and list of immunizations to the Milwaukee pediatrics office.
During the visit, your child's pediatrician may also discuss the importance of wearing protective equipment consistently and discuss the importance of a healthy diet and lifestyle.
What happens if my child has a health condition
A health condition or injury won't necessarily mean that your child can't play sports. Your child's pediatrician may recommend treatments or modifications that will make playing easier. For example, he or she may recommend using a rescue inhaler before games or practices if your child has asthma. If your child has an injury that hasn't quite healed, he or she may need to spend a little more time on the sidelines before being approved to play. Fortunately, most children pass school physicals and can safely participate in sports.
Are you ready to schedule your children's sports physicals? Call your pediatricians in Milwaukee, WI, Dr. Sandra Arce-Garzon and Dr. Sergio Casaclang of Best Care Pediatrics, at (414) 282-5810 to schedule an appointment.