Looking forward to cheering on your child on the court, field or track this year? Don’t forget to schedule a sports physical for them.
“Don’t underestimate the value of a sports physical in making sure your child is ready to play,” says Dr. Ian Bushell, a medical director for BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee.
What is a sports physical?
Dr. Bushell: A sports physical is an opportunity to identify health issues and injury risks and determine if your child is eligible to play a sport.
It’s different from a well-child visit. A well-child visit is more comprehensive. It focuses on your child’s overall health and may include vaccines and tests. Meanwhile, a sports physical assesses your child’s readiness to play a sport. If you skipped a regular physical to fit in a sports physical this year, check this recommended timing of checkups for your child.
As with any doctor’s visit, there’s paperwork to fill out. You may have to provide information about previous sports injuries, concussions and other issues. Sports physical forms also ask about family and patient histories. The doctor will want to know about past injuries and health problems, as well as issues such as unexplained seizures or fainting.
The physical examination part of a sports physical will include:
- A height and weight check
- Breathing, blood pressure and pulse measurements
- Vision check
The doctor may also look for signs of muscle weakness, connective tissue disease, or signs of liver or spleen enlargement. These could affect your child’s ability to play.
What does the doctor look for?
Dr. Bushell: The purpose of this visit is to make sure it’s safe for your child to play a sport. Common issues found in sports physicals include high blood pressure and impaired vision. Sometimes, a doctor might pick up on a heart murmur. Typically, none of these are immediately life-threatening, but they do require follow-up. Also, it might delay your child’s clearance to play until the issue has been addressed.
The biggest health concern is sudden cardiac arrest. A sports physical is a great opportunity to detect issues that might lead to sudden cardiac arrest and prevent it from occurring.
When is the best time to get a sports physical?
Dr. Bushell: You can’t wait to schedule a sports physical until the sports season starts.
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends getting a sports physical at least six weeks before the first preseason practice. This will give your child’s doctor time to address any medical issues that come up during the visit.
The exact timing is different in each state. Tennessee requires that student athletes provide a signed medical evaluation form no earlier than April 15.
While you can visit an urgent care center for a sports physical, it’s better to see your child’s primary care provider. Appointments tend to book up fast, so you want to be proactive.
“Your child’s primary care provider has a long-term relationship with your child,” Dr. Bushell says. “Your child will be more likely to bring up any concerns with someone they know and trust.”
More from Dr. Bushell on WellTuned
Get more information about specific health terms, topics and conditions to better manage your health on bcbst.com. BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee members can access wellness-related discounts on fitness products, gym memberships, healthy eating and more through Blue365®. BCBST members can also find tools and resources to help improve health and well-being by logging into BlueAccess and going to the Managing Your Health tab.