In the field of sports medicine, the sports physical is known as a sports pre-participation exam (PPE). The test helps determine if it is safe for your child to participate in sports activities. Most states require children and adolescents have a physical before starting a sport or when they begin a new season. Sometimes a PPE is not required, but doctors recommend getting one anyway just to be safe. If your children need sports physicals in Starkville MS, now would be a great time to get them.
The two main parts of a sports physical examination are the physical examination and medical history. Before visiting the doctor, have your child’s health history available.
The medical history covers things like:
- Serious illness of family members
- Diseases you had during your childhood or those you have now. These can range from diabetes to epilepsy to asthma.
- Allergies (Hay Fever or bee stings, for example)
- Hospitalizations or surgeries
- Past injuries (which include concussions, sprains or broken bones)
- If you have ever felt dizzy or passed out, or have had difficulty breathing during exercise
- Medications you are on (includes all kinds)
These questions are on a form you can take home, so parents can help complete it. If possible, a parent’s medical history may also be requested to identify specific issues that are hereditary in nature.
The physical exam is the second part of Sports Physicals in Starkville MS. A physical exam, or clinical exam (more popularly known as a check-up), is the practice by which doctors look over a patient’s body for signs of possible disease. Together with the patient’s medical history, a physical exam aids in correctly diagnosing and treating the patient. This data will become part of the patient’s permanent medical record.
In the US, a physical exam usually happens once a year. This prevents healthcare providers from billing patients more than once for the same procedure. Complete physical examinations typically include lab tests, audiograms, pulmonary function testing, audiograms, urinalysis, and other various tests depending on gender and age. The best part of being a child is the ability to play sports. Having a sports physical is the only way to do this. Contact Children’s Health Center of Columbus Inc. for more information.
