Get Ready for Spring Activities with a Sports Physical

As the snow melts (outside of California), kids everywhere are gearing up for the spring sports season. Whether your child plays volleyball, softball, soccer, or some other spring sport, they’ll most likely need an updated sports physical to play on their school team.

According to board-certified pediatrician Sima Stein, MD, now is the time to schedule one. At her office in San Jose, California, Dr. Stein performs annual physicals and sports physicals and completes all the necessary medical paperwork that your school or team requires so that you are ready to run, jump, and play. 

Here, Dr. Stein explains what you need to know about sports physicals for spring sports.

Why do I need a sports physical?

Most school team sports require a sports physical to ensure your child is physically ready to play their sport. At a spring sports checkup, Dr. Stein reviews your child’s health history, performs a physical exam, and looks at past and current injuries and health conditions. 

She makes sure your child is in good physical health, checks medications they might be taking, and provides medical support for your child to help them succeed in their sport.

For example, if your child has asthma, Dr. Stein may adjust their medications so they can run without issue. Additionally, Dr. Stein looks at your child’s joints, bones, and muscles to make sure they function well so they can perform at an optimal level.

How is a sports physical different from an annual physical?

Many of the tests and evaluations Dr. Stein performs during a yearly physical are the same ones she runs through at a sports physical. However, there may be additional screenings and evaluations, or fewer. 

In both types of physicals, Dr. Stein checks to make sure your child is up to date on vaccines and immunizations, notes your child’s weight and height, and performs a thorough physical examination. Additionally, at either physical, it’s always a good opportunity to ask any physical or mental health-related questions.

What do I need to get ready for my sports physical?

In most cases, the school or team will provide a form to fill out that certifies it’s safe for your child to play on the team. Be sure to bring this form so Dr. Stein can complete and return it to the school. 

You can make the appointment go smoothly by bringing any information regarding your child’s health, including a list of allergies, medications, information on illnesses or injuries, and any relevant family health information.

Don’t wait until the last minute to schedule your child’s sports physical. Call our office today to schedule a physical or to have Dr. Stein fill out the required form if your child has had an annual exam recently. You can also request an appointment online.