Kids Health Watch is Sponsored by Children’s Medical Group
As the school year comes to a close and students begin choosing their sports for the next year, it’s important to plan ahead for one essential step—their sports physical. To avoid last-minute stress, consider scheduling your child’s sports physical early, ensuring they are ready to go when the season begins.
A sports physical form is required for any student participating in school sports, typically beginning in 7th grade. Ensuring that your child’s sports physical is up to date at their pediatrician’s office will save you from unnecessary stress and, most importantly, will help keep your young athlete safe and healthy.
Research has demonstrated that a thorough medical interview, with appropriate questions tailored to the athlete, can detect up to 90% of medical conditions and nearly 70% of potential injury risks. This highlights the importance of having your pediatrician conduct your child’s sports screening. The goal of a sports physical is not just to meet a requirement but to safeguard your child’s health, ensuring they can perform at their best while reducing the risk of injury.
One of the most critical components of a sports physical is the comprehensive physical examination. This should include a full head-to-toe assessment, growth chart updates, vital signs monitoring, and any necessary vaccinations. Having this exam conducted by your child’s primary care physician is crucial, as they are familiar with your child’s medical history and can easily track any changes. Early detection of potential health concerns allows for timely intervention.
Another vital aspect of the sports physical is the opportunity for your pediatrician to discuss healthy and potentially unhealthy habits with your child. Athletes, particularly at a young age, may pick up behaviors that could have long-term health consequences. These may include poor dietary habits, overtraining, or even the use of performance-enhancing substances. Regular checkups provide a safe space for these conversations.
Ultimately, a sports physical is about more than just filling out a form—it’s a fundamental step in safeguarding your child’s health. Scheduling a timely appointment with your pediatrician ensures that your athlete is in top condition, ready to excel, and protected from potential health risks.
Author: Savannah Browning
Dr. Savannah Browning grew up in Fayette, AL. She moved to Mobile to attend Medical School at the University of South Alabama in 2009, and has been a proud Mobilian ever since. She joined Children’s Medical Group in 2016, and her office is at the Airport Boulevard location. She lives in Mobile with her husband, Andrew, and their three children: Jude, Luke, and Annie.
