Preparing for Your Child’s Sports Physical: What Parents Need To Know

Reach out to Dr. Haravu Lokesh, Dr. Rupal Desai, Dr. Monica Porcelli, and Tara Savino, PA of A to Z Pediatrics and schedule your child’s sports physicals in New Port Richey, FL.

What Are Sports Physicals for Kids?

Many kids enjoy playing sports, and parents also tend to encourage that hobby because it promotes good habits and physical fitness. If your child is interested enough in athletic activities to continue pursuing them during school hours, they will likely need to take a sports physical. Sports physicals may also be required for kids seeking to join athletic organizations outside school.

So, what do sports physicals involve?

The first portion of a sports physical involves detailing your child’s medical history. Mention allergies or injuries your child has that may affect their physical capabilities. You should also discuss any medications your child takes so the pediatrician can check if they may cause complications.

Don’t forget to mention any illnesses that run in your family. Even if those factors may not seem relevant, you should still share them with your pediatrician so they can be accounted for.

Your child may also have undiagnosed injuries or diseases. If your child has experienced spells of dizziness or breathing difficulties while playing, you should mention them to your doctor.

Physical examinations are also performed during these medical consultations. Specific tests conducted during sports physicals include vision, hearing, breathing, and vital sign tests. The pediatrician will also examine your child’s heart, lungs, nose, throat, and reflexes.

Arrange your child’s sports physicals in New Port Richey, FL, by contacting your local pediatrician.

Why Does Your Child Need a Sports Physical?

Sports physicals are valuable for more than just being required to participate in sports programs or organizations.

First, sports physicals are highly recommended because they determine whether aspiring athletes can safely take on those activities. Your child may have physical conditions that could put them at risk if they participate in strenuous activities. Identifying those risks ahead of time is critical.

Sports physicals can also yield valuable information for preventing injuries and improving performance. Aspiring athletes can learn more about their physical capabilities during those consultations. By following their doctor’s advice, your child will understand how to push their body without increasing their injury risk.

Continued physicals can also alert the pediatrician to physical developments that could eventually lead to injuries. They can address those potential threats and minimize their impact.

Sports Physicals Bookings

Speak to Dr. Haravu Lokesh, Dr. Rupal Desai, Dr. Monica Porcelli, and Tara Savino, PA of A to Z Pediatrics, and book your child’s sports physicals in New Port Richey, FL, by calling their offices at (727) 375-5242.