Playing on a community or school sports team is a great way for teens to stay in shape and learn teamwork. Most school districts now require physical exams prior to enrollment in sports and other extracurricular activities. 

 

As a provider for a sports physical exam we make sure their bodies are ready for the season ahead and that there isn’t a family history or past medical history that requires further attention. It's a good idea for every teen who plays a sport to get one annually to make sure they're in top shape and healthy enough to safely participate.

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Sports Physicals Q & A

Why does my child need a sports physical?

Sports physicals are required by schools and athletic clubs because they let you know if your child will have any issues participating in a particular sport. In addition to the exam, Dr. Neda Motameni can identify areas that may be prone to injury and suggest ways to improve their strength. She can also educate you, the parent, on common signs of a concussion and other common sports injuries.

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What is checked during a sports physical?

Dr. Motameni and her team perform a full physical exam that also includes:

Vitals check: pulse, blood pressure, height, and weight
Vision exam: regular and peripheral vision, Fitness assessment: testing heart, lungs, abdomen, ears, nose, and throat
Joints and flexibility: checking strength, reflexes, posture, and joints
Along with a physical exam, Dr. Motameni also reviews your child’s medical history, so please bring any relevant information along.

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Is a sports physical the same as a regular annual physical?

No. A sports physical looks for conditions that might be life-threatening to your child if they play a sport, or for conditions that put them at a higher risk for certain injuries. Schools also often require additional documentation from Dr. Motamedi about your child’s health and vaccination record than an annual physical exam would provide.

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How often does my child need a sports physical?

Sports physicals are usually valid for up to one year. Please check with your school or sports club as some may require more frequent testing, however.

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What happens if my child fails a sports physical?

After your sports physical, Dr. Motameni gives you and your child one of three diagnoses:

Cleared for all sports without restriction
Cleared for all sports without restriction with recommendation for further evaluation or treatment
Not cleared pending further evaluation for certain sports or for all sports
If your child doesn’t pass the sports physical, they won’t get Dr. Motameni’s certification. However, at Internal Medicine Practice the top priority is your child’s well-being.

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If they fail their sports physical this year, Dr. Motameni and her team work with you and your child so they can participate in the sport next season, or discuss what sports your child may be better suited for.

Call the office or use online booking to schedule a sports physical at Internal Medicine Practice today.

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