Pediatric Sports Physicals
Get your children a sports physical at University Health before starting school each year. This exam helps decide if they are healthy and can safely participate in the sports they enjoy.
Why Your Child Needs a Sports Physical
Many schools in the San Antonio area require completed medical forms before your child can participate in athletics and other activities. Sports physicals check your child’s overall health and make sure there are no possible health problems that could make it unsafe to take part in activities.
Injury & Illness Prevention
If your child has a previous sports injury, your pediatric doctor will ask about his or her healing process. You’ll receive medical advice about:
- Avoiding injuries from happening again
- Preventing injuries before they happen
Your pediatrician knows your child’s health history, so it’s best to see your pediatric primary care doctor at University Health for a sports physical.
What to Expect
Your child’s sports physical includes a medical history and a physical exam.
Medical History
Fill out the school-required form in detail before your child’s appointment. Full, complete answers inform us about medical conditions and help keep your child safe. During the medical history part of the exam, expect questions about:
- Episodes of dizziness, chest pain or trouble breathing during exercise
- Past injuries (concussions, sprains or bone fractures)
- Illnesses, such as asthma, diabetes or epilepsy
- Medications (prescription, over the counter or supplements)
- Previous hospitalizations or surgeries
- Family history of serious illnesses
Physical Exam
During the physical exam, your child’s doctor will:
- Check posture, joints, strength and flexibility
- Conduct a vision test
- Evaluate heart, lungs, abdomen, ears, nose and throat health
- Record height and weight
- Take blood pressure and pulse reading
The doctor may ask teens questions about drug, alcohol and dietary supplement use because they can affect health.
Sports Physical Results
If your pediatrician identifies an area of concern during the exam, he or she will also recommend treatment. Your doctor may refer your child to a pediatric specialist at University Health to help your child become as healthy as possible.
