Sports Physicals in Henrico, VA
Parents of active children know that each new sporting event typically requires the completion of a yearly physical examination. Be sure to contact ADM Parham Pediatrics as soon as possible to schedule an evaluation for any upcoming seasonal sports!
The Purpose of a Sports Physical
It may seem a bit unnecessary to have your child complete a physical exam every single year, but this routine check-up is an essential part of maintaining their health. Yearly physicals are a perfect time to assess how well your kid is developing, and can alert you and Dr. Samaan to any potential problems or medical conditions.
What to Expect During the Exam
Areas of Focus
A sports physical is a unique evaluation that targets unique bodily abilities and functions to determine whether or not it is safe for a child to participate in contact sports. During this exam, Dr. Samaan will assess the individual’s:
- Heart rate and rhythm
- Vision
- Hearing
- Height
- Weight
- Blood pressure
- Flexibility
- Reflexes
- Bone health
- Strength
- Muscle health
- Breathing
- Joint mobility
Like any physical, your pediatrician will want to check all important bodily systems like the heart, lungs, etc. to make sure that they are in working order and can sustain strenuous activity. This usually involves completing several simple diagnostic tests, including tapping the joints to check your child’s reflexes, using a stethoscope to evaluate their ease of breathing, and more.
Health History Questionnaire
It is also standard for Dr. Samaan to spend some time asking about their patient’s medical history, as this can indicate their risk for various conditions or diseases. For example, a child who has previously suffered a broken leg should be especially careful when engaging in sports like football or soccer. Your physician can also provide expert recommendations to help your child avoid any new or recurring injuries during a game or practice.
Don’t Delay!
Not only is a sports physical important in regards to your child’s health, but without this simple exam, they will miss out on participating in the many activities that they love all throughout the year. Make sure that your kids are all set before their next big event by calling 804-964-1600 to schedule an appointment at ADM Parham Pediatrics today!