Sports physicals are a key step for athletes before engaging in their activities. These evaluations help identify anything that might limit or affect an athlete’s ability to safely participate in sports. While athletes and their parents often know they need a physical, figuring out which doctor offers these evaluations can sometimes be unclear. Here’s more information about which healthcare providers conduct these types of physicals and what you can expect:
Pediatricians
For younger athletes, pediatricians are often the go-to choice for sports physicals. Pediatricians are familiar with a child’s growth and development patterns, which gives them unique insight when evaluating younger athletes. Since they often have access to the child’s complete medical history, they are in an ideal position to assess overall health and fitness levels. Sports physicals conducted by a pediatrician may involve checking for conditions such as asthma or past injuries and assessing whether these could impact an individual’s ability to participate in sports. Plus, if you already visit a pediatrician for regular checkups, it keeps things convenient and familiar.
Primary Care Physicians
Primary care physicians (PCPs) are also equipped to perform physicals for athletes of all ages. These doctors typically have an ongoing relationship with their patients, which means they often have a complete record of the person’s medical history. PCPs focus on overall health and may address chronic health issues during the physical. Scheduling a sports physical with a primary care physician is especially beneficial for athletes who may require additional guidance on their health and wellness.
Sports Medicine Physicians
If there’s a concern about sports-specific injuries or performance, sports medicine physicians are great providers for conducting sports physicals. Unlike general practitioners, sports medicine doctors specialize in physical health related to athletic activities. Their deeper understanding of sports-related issues enables them to address concerns such as injury recovery, joint stability, and strength training. This makes them an ideal choice for athletes at higher competitive levels or those with ongoing issues from past injuries.
Other Options
For quick and convenient options, many families turn to urgent care clinics. These clinics offer walk-in appointments, making them ideal for last-minute sports physicals. Doctors at urgent care clinics are trained to perform basic components of sports evaluations. While they may not have access to detailed medical histories, these clinics provide a fast and accessible way to clear athletes for participation. It’s a practical option when schedules are tight, and the school deadline is fast approaching. No matter which healthcare provider you visit, here are some general components of a sports physical:
- Medical History Review: The doctor will review past injuries, surgeries, illnesses, and conditions, such as allergies or asthma.
- Physical Examination: This includes measuring height, weight, blood pressure, and pulse, as well as assessing strength and flexibility.
- Discussion of Activity Plans: Physicians may ask about the types of activities or sports you plan to participate in to determine any specific considerations for safe participation.
Get Sports Physicals at a Clinic Near You
Sports physicals are an integral part of preparing for athletic activities. Whether it’s your pediatrician, a primary care physician, a sports medicine expert, or a walk-in clinic, there are plenty of options available to match what you need. Each professional brings unique strengths, so what works best depends on your situation. Get a physical to help make sure that every athlete is ready to take the field safely.
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