School or Sport Physical

It's that time of year again!  If you are here on this page, you probably have a child or teen who needs a back to school or sport physical for a team sport or outdoor activity. Whether it be football, soccer, baseball, volleyball, scuba diving, golf or just about any other organized sport or activity, an annual medical exam is the norm.

I take the sport physical, technically known as a  pre-participation physical examination (PPE) as a great responsibility, in part to identify potential health issues that could impact safe participation and also as an opportunity to provide practical training tips and suggestions for for avoiding injuries.

Here is what you can expect from my school or sport physical:

Medical & Injury History

I am going to ask you about:

  • Health issues you had or may have such as diabetes, asthma or heart disease

  • Previous hospitalizations or surgery like tonsils, appendix, or tubes in ears

  • illnesses among other family members

  • Serious allergies to medications, foods or critters like bees or insects

  • previous injuries (concussions, sprains, or bone fractures)

  • any history of passing out, chest pain, dizziness or had trouble breathing during exercise

  • any medications that you are on (including over-the-counter medications, herbal supplements, and prescription medications)

  • use of drugs, alcohol, or dietary supplements, including steroids or other "performance enhancers" and weight-loss supplements

Physical Examination

The physical exam includes:

  • height and weight

  • check your vital signs - blood pressure, pulse, breathing, temperature and oxygen levels

  • vision test

  • heart, lungs, abdomen, ears, nose, and throat

  • posture, joints, strength, and flexibility

  • reflexes, balance and coordination.

  • other exams if required by the school, sport or organization

Why Is a School or Sport Physical Important?

A school or sport physical can help identify health problems that can interfere with your successful participation in a sport or activity. For example, asthma attacks can occur during active sports or frequent sinus infections that make it painful to clear your ears when diving. 

Even if a problem is identified, It's very unlikely that you'll be disqualified from playing your sport. The ultimate goal of the sport physical is to ensure safe participation in sports, not to disqualify the participants. In fact, fewer than 1% of students have conditions that might limit sports participation, and most of these conditions are known before the PPE takes place.

To request a same day or Sunday appointment or for more info on a school or sport physical

Call me at 415-897-5400.