Why are School and Sports Physicals Important?

Team sports are a great way for school aged children to maintain a healthy weight, socialize and make new friends, engage in healthy competition, achieve personal and team goals, and learn valuable skills and life lessons. But just like any activity that requires physical exertion and carries an inherent risk of even minor injuries, most schools and athletic programs will require that every child is healthy enough and able to participate before getting started. The pediatricians at Royal Oak Pediatric Associates Dr. Anita Henley, Dr. Tara Etter, and Dr. Leesa Lawrence offer school and sports physicals in Marion, VA, to help get your kids ready to play.

School and Sports Physicals in Marion, VA

Even if your child is in good health and has already undergone a standard check up or wellness check with their pediatrician, schools and athletic programs require comprehensive sports physicals to make sure that your child will be able to meet the physical demands of the program, and to minimize liability for potential injuries and accidents.

A sports physical typically covers the basics like checking vision, weight and height, basic reflexes, and blood pressure. Depending on the type of activity, they may also check for joint function and muscle strength and flexibility. If your child suffers from a health condition like asthma, diabetes, or is obese/overweight, getting a sports physical and following specific medical guidelines will be especially important (however underlying health conditions are not necessarily a deterrent to joining a sports team and getting necessary physical activity).

After the evaluation is complete and the pediatrician determines that it is safe for your child to participate, they will fill out the required forms or provide documentation to present to the school to get started.

Find a Pediatrician in Marion, VA

For more information about school and sports physicals and getting your child cleared to participate in a sport or physical activity, contact Royal Oak Pediatric Associates by calling (276) 783-8183 to schedule an appointment with one of our pediatricians today.