With the school sports season already upon us, it is likely that your child is going to need a sports physical to participate in school-sponsored athletics. If this is the first time that your child is participating in the sports physical process, you are likely wondering what that entails. At Best Care Family Health Center in Milwaukee, WI we put your child first while our exemplary team of medical staff is led by the expertise of Dr. Sandra Garzon and Dr. Sergio Casaclang. Keep reading to learn more about what to expect during a sports physical exam.
Otherwise known as a Preparticipation Physical Exam (PPE), a sports physical determines whether your child is medically healthy enough to participate in athletic events. A sports physical is necessary because your child may have an underlying health condition that is only detected via an examination and if it is not detected, could jeopardize their long-term health. Depending on the sport being played, our medical team may be able to prescribe medication or offer helpful tips that help your child towards full participation in the activity.
A PPE will begin with a medical history form that will ask a range of questions covering medicines that your child is taking, including over-the-counter, supplements, vitamins, and prescription medicines. Additionally, the form will ask if your child has any preexisting medical conditions such as diabetes or asthma, if they've been hospitalized in the past, or have had prior surgery. Following a review of the form, we will perform an exam of your child that will include asking standard questions that may include topics such as alcohol and drug usage depending on age. In addition to asking questions of your child, the doctor will also perform a physical exam designed to check flexibility, strength, joints, and overall health. If your child does not pass their sports physical, this does not mean that they cannot participate in any athletics. Often, a referral to a specialist is needed and accommodations for participation may be suggested.
To schedule a sports physical for your child, give Drs. Garzon and Casaclang a call at (414) 282-5810 or stop by the Best Care Family Health Center in Milwaukee, WI.