Sports Physicals

If your child plays sports for their school, chances are they first need a sports physical as a requirement to participate. At Chesterfield Pediatrics in Midlothian, Virginia, the highly skilled pediatric specialists offer sports physicals and camp physicals for kids and teenagers. Call the office to schedule your child’s yearly sports physical, or use the online booking feature today.

What are sports physicals?

Sports physicals are medical exams during which your child’s pediatrician evaluates them to determine if they’re healthy enough to safely participate in physical activity and sports training.

Your child might need sports physicals to participate in school-sponsored sports activities, gym classes, or camps. The Chesterfield Pediatrics experts are highly skilled in completing sports physicals for children and teens.

Does my child need sports physicals?

Check in with your child’s school, coach, or camp to see if they need a sports physical to participate. Even if they don’t, you can still schedule one to gain peace of mind, knowing that your child is healthy enough to stay safe on the court, rink, or field.

What happens during sports physicals?

During sports physicals at Chesterfield Pediatrics, friendly providers welcome your child and complete the following:

Initial evaluation

A pediatrician or pediatric nurse practitioner weighs your child and evaluates their height, growth patterns, and body mass index (BMI). They also check their blood pressure, pulse, and other vital signs.

Medical history review

A medical history review includes questions about your child’s lifestyle habits, potential symptoms, medication, and personal and family disease histories.

Physical exam

Your child’s specialist evaluates their overall health and wellness during a sports physical exam. They assess their ears, eyes, hearing, vision, neck, breathing, heartbeat, and reflexes. They also examine their limbs and other areas of the body to rule out injuries, illnesses, or diseases.

Diagnostic testing

Other diagnostic tests your child might need if they’re at risk or show signs of medical problems include urine and blood tests, X-rays (or other imaging procedures), and heart function, allergy, or asthma tests.

What happens after sports physicals?

After a sports physical, your child’s specialist reviews the results with you. If they pass a physical, their provider signs the required paperwork for sports participation. If your child needs further diagnostic testing, treatment, or care from a specialist, their pediatrician helps get them the care they need to play sports safely.

How often does my child or teen need sports physicals?

While every school, camp, and sports team has different requirements, your child usually requires a sports physical every year.

Before the sports season, you can book a sports physical with the Chesterfield Pediatrics team. This is especially important if you have concerns about your child’s ability to play sports safely or if they show signs of an injury or another medical problem.

Call Chesterfield Pediatrics office today or use the online booking tab to schedule sports physicals for your child or teenager.