A sports physical, also known as preparticipation physical examination (PPE), is a helpful component in a child’s sporting life. For some states, PPE is an actual requirement before a child can be allowed to play sports. The purpose of the examination is to determine whether a child has the physical ability to engage in the activities associated with a particular sport. If your child’s sports team asks him or her to undergo PPE, expect your Lone Tree pediatrician to: discuss your child’s medical history with you, measure the overall health of your child, determine your child’s physical fitness level, and evaluate any possible injuries or conditions that may affect your child’s ability to play sports.
During the physical examination, the pediatrician will examine the condition of your child’s bones, joints, heart and lungs. The doctor may also measure the weight and height, record the blood pressure and pulse and check for proper vision. The results will determine whether the child must take any precautions or wear any safety gear to prevent injuries while playing.
Sports Examinations Can Reveal Unknown Conditions
Many people believe that sports physicals are not very important–they believe that it’s just a simple task of taking a form to the physician to complete and sign. However, a comprehensive physical examination may reveal certain dormant conditions that your child may have that requires special consideration. It may not necessarily prevent him or her from being able to play sports, however, the doctor will advise you on how to manage this condition to help your child stay healthy during physical fitness activities.
Risks Aligned with Specific Sports
Even if your child doesn’t have any conditions that may affect his or her physical fitness ability, there are certain inherent risks that are linked to specific sports. During the sports physical, the pediatrician may discuss these risks and offer advice to protect against injuries.
Finding a Pediatrician Lone Tree
It’s important to find a compassionate Lone Tree pediatrician who will take the time to help your child feel as comfortable as possible during the examination. Good pediatricians such as those from Lone Tree Pediatrics will show genuine concern for a child’s health, recommend appropriate ways to manage conditions, and provide answers to any questions that you may have.
Sources:
(Sports Physicals, KidsHealth.org)
(Why those sports physicals are so important? PiedmontParent.com)
