Sports Physicals

What are sports physicals?

A sports physical is a comprehensive assessment that evaluates your child’s health and fitness to determine whether they’re healthy enough to play competitive sports. 

Most school districts and competitive leagues in Texas require a completed sports physical before a child can participate, especially for athletes in junior high and high school.

What happens during sports physicals?

Sports physicals are similar to your child’s annual physical exam. Like an annual physical, the exam is a head-to-toe evaluation. First, your pediatrician at Garland Pediatric Practice records your child’s height and weight, then they take their vitals (temperature, respiration rate, blood pressure).

They review your child’s medical history and may ask questions about your family health history to identify potential risk factors, such as congenital heart defects. Next, they check inside your child’s ears, nose, and throat, and listen to their heart and lungs. They may also palpate your child’s abdomen to ensure proper organ size and location.

Finally, your child’s pediatrician tests their reflexes and muscle strength.

They may order blood work, urinalysis, or imaging scans like X-rays, and screen for vision and hearing, to further understand your child’s condition.

What should I bring to a sports physical?

Whether your child is a returning patient or is visiting Garland Pediatric Practice for the first time, you should bring the following to your visit:

• An up-to-date list of medications
• Immunization records
• Medical and family history
• Insurance card
• List of allergies
• List of past surgeries or serious illnesses
• School or sports team forms

A sports physical also serves as an opportunity for you to connect with your child’s pediatrician. Make sure to bring a list of any questions or concerns you have about your child’s fitness for sports.

What happens after sports physicals?

In most cases, your pediatrician signs the appropriate paperwork that allows your child to play competitive or school-sponsored sports. However, they may recommend additional testing if your child shows signs of asthma, heart problems, or muscle weakness. 

If your child has a condition that affects their ability to play sports, your pediatrician may recommend treatments, such as an inhaler, medication, or a brace.

To learn more about sports physicals, call Garland Pediatric Practice or schedule an appointment online today.