Kids love sports, and that is a good thing. Unfortunately, it is common to hear a student fall ill, or, worse still, die when participating in a sporting activity. In most cases, it is later revealed that the student has a health concern that nobody knew about, not even the student themselves.
Suppose the instructor or student knew about these concerns in advance. In that case, there is a high probability the complications could be avoided. As such, garland sports physicals are a key proactive approach. Here are the many exams included in a sports physical.
1. Physical Health Examination
A physical health exam is a key element of a sports physical as it comprehensively assesses an individual’s general physical health. During this exam, your provider will assess your weight, height, body mass index (BMI), and general health history. Your provider can also evaluate other vital signs like heart, respiratory, and blood pressure. This information provides a general outlook on your health and determines whether you can engage in sports.
2. Range of Motion Testing
A good range of motion is key for engaging in sports safely and effectively. If an athlete has reduced mobility in some joints, it could raise their risk of injury, and reduce their ability to perform specific movements. Range of motion testing assesses the individual’s mobility, flexibility, and motion range.
Your doctor can perform this procedure in various joints like the knees, ankles, shoulders, and hips. Once problems with flexibility and mobility are identified, your provider can recommend the best measures to improve these elements of your game.
3. Vision Screening
Athletes need a good vision to perform safely and effectively, especially in sports like football, baseball, and basketball. For this reason, vision screening is also a key aspect of sports physicals.
Vision screening entails an assessment of an individual’s peripheral vision, visual acuity, color vision, and depth perception. The findings from your vision screenings help spot any visual impairments affecting your performance and suggest corrective measures like contact lenses, or prescription glasses to ensure optimal visual acuity.
4. Health History Review
A health history check is key in a sports physical as it offers credible information about one’s past and current health status. During your consultation, your provider will inquire about chronic health concerns, surgeries, and conditions you have suffered.
Your provider may also want to know if you are on any medications to determine your potential health risk of conditions like asthma, or heart disease that can affect performance. If necessary, your doctor will advise you on managing existing health concerns whilst participating in sports.
5. Neurological Exam
A neurological exam assesses one’s nervous system, including coordination, sensory capabilities, and reflexes. Your provider might also examine your cognitive function, including concentration, memory, and attention, to ensure you are mentally fit to engage in sporting activities. This exam can also spot underlying neurological concerns or injuries like a concussion that may affect your sports performance.
An ounce of prevention is better than a pound of cure. Sports physicals are a key preventative measure to guarantee the safety and well-being of young athletes. There are many procedures to expect from your physical, ranging from a physical health assessment and health history check to a neurological exam.
These exams help to identify any underlying health concerns or injuries that might limit your ability to engage in sporting activities. Besides, the outcomes of your sports physical can guide safe and effective training techniques.
