Although it feels like summer has just started, back-to-school time is just around the corner. Before heading back to school or starting a sport, children need well-child checks and sports physicals. Beat the rush and schedule your child’s exam today!
Below we discuss why it’s important to have both a well-child check and a sports physical done.
Well-child exams
At well-child exams, the doctor will check your child’s growth, well-being and development as well as offer guidance on nutrition, sleep, safety and other important topics. These visits are a great opportunity to learn more and ask questions about your child’s health.
What is the schedule for exams and immunizations?
This schedule of preventive care and immunizations helps you know what to expect and prepare your child at each age.
Sports physicals
A sports physical can usually be completed at the time of a well-child exam which makes these convenient and easy to check off your list!
What is a sport physical?
The sports physical exam — also called the preparticipation physical evaluation (PPE) — helps tell if it’s safe for kids to play a certain sport. Active kids who do not play organized sports should also get regular sports physicals.
There are two main parts to a sports physical – going over medical history and a physical exam. During the medical history part, the doctor will ask questions about serious illnesses that run in the family, past injuries, allergies and more. During the physical exam, the doctor will take your child’s height and weight, test their vision and more.
Why are sports physicals important?
A sports physical helps athletes find out about and deal with health problems that might interfere with their participation in a sport. For example, if your child has frequent asthma attacks, the doctor can adjust their medicine so they can breathe more easily when running.
Well-child exams and sports physicals are important. Be sure to schedule one for your child as appointments are quickly filling up.