A sports physical is a checkup specifically for people who are planning on playing sports to identify any potential problems that could prevent the child from playing sports or put them at risk for injuries. Do you have a child who is getting ready to start a new sport? If so, then they will need a sports physical.
Let’s talk about four major steps you could expect in your child’s sports physical and where you can go for outstanding sports physicals in Washington.
1. Record the Height and Weight
The medical professional will record the height and weight of your child during their sports physical. This information is important because it can help identify any potential health concerns. For example, if your child is significantly taller or shorter than their peers, it may indicate a growth hormone deficiency. Similarly, if your child is significantly overweight, it could be a sign of obesity. By recording this information, the medical professional can keep track of your child’s growth and development and flag any potential problems early on.
2. Record Blood Pressure and Pulse
Other vitals that the medical professional will take during your child’s sports physical are their blood pressure and pulse. Your child’s blood pressure will be checked with an inflated cuff that goes around their arm. The medical professional will then listen with a stethoscope to see how fast the blood is moving through their arteries. A normal reading for a child is 120/80 mmHg or lower.
Your child’s pulse will be checked by feeling for the arteries on their wrists or neck. The medical professional will use an oximeter to check the pulse and oxygen level. If your child’s oxygen level is low, the medical professional might order some additional testing, typically spirometry. However, spirometry is not performed on every child with a sports physical; it might be a part of the assessment if they have a pulmonary history, i.e., asthma.
3. Test Their Vision and Breathing
Part of a sports physical usually involves tests for both vision and breathing. For the vision test, the medical professional will have your child read from a distant chart. If they cannot read the bottom line, they may need glasses or contact lenses to participate in their chosen sport. The breathing test is generally a Spirometry test, which measures how much air someone can exhale in one breath. This is important because many sports, such as swimming and running, require athletes to have good lung capacity.
If your child has asthma or another condition that affects their breathing, the medical professional may prescribe an inhaler for them to use during exercise.
4. Check Their Strength and Posture
During the physical, the medical professional will check your child’s strength, flexibility, joint stability, and posture. They will also ask about any medical conditions affecting their ability to play sports safely. The medical professional may recommend further tests or treatment if any concerns are found.
Sports Physical in Washington
If you’re looking for a quality sports physical for your child, look no further than FamilyCare of Kent. Our experienced and friendly staff will take care of everything, from checking your child’s vital signs to answering any questions you may have about the exam. It is recommended that all children get a sports physical before participating in any kind of sport or physical activity.
To know more about our comprehensive services, call us today at (253) 859-2273 or schedule an appointment online through our appointment request form.