We offer sports physicals in El Paso, TX
GET READY FOR YOUR NEXT SEASON
THE MEDICAL HISTORY PORTION OF YOUR EXAM
The first part of a pediatric physical is going over medical history. This part of the exam includes questions about:
- Serious illnesses among family members
Illnesses that you had when you were younger or may have now, such as asthma, diabetes, or epilepsy - Previous hospitalizations or surgeries
- Allergies
- Past injuries (including concussions, sprains and bone fractures)
- Whether you’ve ever passed out, felt dizzy, had chest pain or had trouble breathing during exercise
- Any medications that you are on (including over-the-counter medications, herbal supplements and prescription medications)
The medical history questions are usually on a form that you can bring home, so you can ask your parents to help you fill in the answers. If possible, ask both parents about family medical history. Answer the questions as well as you can, and try not to guess the answers or give answers you think your doctor wants.
Looking at patterns of illness in your family is a good way to consider possible conditions you may have. Most sports medicine doctors believe the medical history is the most important part of the sports physical exam, so take time to answer the questions carefully. It’s unlikely that your answers will prevent you from playing your sports.
Speak with one of our staff members today if you have questions about filling out your medical history.
FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THE PHYSICAL EXAMINATION
Wondering what to expect next during your pediatric physical? During the physical part of the exam, the doctor will usually:
- Record your height and weight
- Take your blood pressure and pulse
- Test your vision
- Check your heart, lungs, abdomen, ears, nose and throat Evaluate your posture, joints, strength and flexibility
Although most of the exam will be the same for males and females, if a person has started or already gone through puberty, the doctor may ask females and males different questions. For example, if a female is heavily involved in a lot of active sports, the doctor may ask her about her period and diet to rule out things like female athlete triad (poor nutrition, irregular or absent periods and weak bones).
A doctor will also ask questions about use of drugs, alcohol or dietary supplements, including steroids or other “performance enhancers” and weight-loss supplements, because these can affect a person’s health.
At the end of your exam, the doctor will either fill out and sign a form if everything checks out or, in some cases, recommend a follow-up exam, additional tests or specific treatment for medical problems.
Schedule your exam today.
WHY IS A SPORTS PHYSICAL IMPORTANT?
A sports physical can help you find out about and deal with health problems that might interfere with your participation in a sport. For example, if you have frequent asthma attacks but are a starting forward in soccer, a doctor might be able to prescribe a different type of inhaler or adjust the dosage so that you can breathe more easily when you run.
Your doctor may even have some good training tips and be able to give you some ideas for avoiding injuries. For example, they may recommend certain stretching or strengthening activities that help prevent injuries. A doctor also can identify risk factors that are linked to specific sports. Advice like this will make you a better, stronger athlete.
