The sports history and exam help to tell if it’s safe for your child to participate in their sport. A sports physical can help find out about and deal with health problems that might interfere with your sports performance or increase the chance of getting hurt. For example, if you have frequent asthma attacks, the doctor can adjust your medicines so that you can breathe more easily when you run. The two main parts to a sports physical are the medical history and the physical exam. The medical history form includes questions about:
It’s best that you go to a provider that knows you and your health history best. Schedule your sports physical at least 6 weeks before your sports season starts. If your doctor finds a problem, this should leave enough time to for tests or treatment, if needed. Neither you nor your doctor will be very happy if your sports physical is the day before baseball practice starts and it turns out there’s something that needs to be taken care of before you can suit up.
Sports physicals are usually good for 1 year, though you probably will have to complete a sports form each season. If there are any changes in your health history, like a new injury or you notice new symptoms (such as chest pain or shortness of breath), you may need to see the doctor before being allowed to play. Let your gym teacher or coach know if your health has changed.
