The Importance of Sports Physicals

Every great athlete knows the importance of taking care of their body. Your little athlete doesn't. Let’s face it: kids don’t like visiting the doctor. However, kids love to play games and be active. Sports give your child somewhere to burn off excess energy while having fun and learning vital skills such as teamwork and respect. Ensuring your kid can play safely helps them get the most out of the experience. The first step in that process is a physical. That’s why Dr. Havaru Lokesh, Dr. Rupal Desai, and Dr. Monica Porcelli at A to Z Pediatrics provide sports physicals in New Port Richey, FL, for your child.

Preventing Injuries

Sports are never entirely risk-free. Every athlete knows that there’s a chance they could get injured any time they step onto the field. However, kids' sports are usually much, much safer. Baseballs are thrown much slower. Tackle football is replaced with two-hand touch and flag. Still, injuries can happen, especially if your child has underlying health issues already. Sports physicals tell New Port Richey, FL, parents if their kid has any risk factors that might make sports a bad idea or might limit what sports your kid can safely play.

Pre-Existing Conditions

Kids do a pretty good job of injuring themselves without playing sports. These injuries might have healed enough for your kid to act normally, but sports are more intense. Ensuring your child doesn’t have a minor condition, such as a mild sprain, limited mobility, or a developing hernia, that could prevent them from fully enjoying sports is essential.

Vaccinations

The most important thing you can do to protect your kids' health is to keep them up to date on their vaccines, especially before they join any group activities. Physicals give your pediatrician a chance to check if your child needs any shots to fully protect them from diseases while they’re playing with their friends.

Schedule a Physical Today

Physicals are the first line of defense for athletes of all ages. If you’re a parent near New Port Richey, FL, schedule sports physicals for your kids with Dr. Lokesh, Dr. Desai, and Dr. Porcelli at A to Z Pediatrics in New Port Richey, FL. Call (727) 375-5242 to schedule. Schedule your child’s physical and get them into the game today.