The end of the school years brings a flurry of activity for busy parents and guardians. As you’re creating your pre-summer to-do list, make sure your child is up to date on their sports physical.
“Late spring is a great time to schedule,” says Kevin Gentile, MD, a pediatrician with ThedaCare Physicians Pediatrics-Neenah. “The good news is that your child can complete their annual checkup and sports physical in the same visit.”
Avoid the late-summer sports physical rush and enter the season with a more carefree state of mind. Here, we address commonly asked questions to help you prepare for your child’s visit.
Sports Physical FAQs
1. Why does my child need a sports physical?
“While completing a sports physical might feel like yet another requirement, it’s more than that,” Dr. Gentile says. “It can help kids and parents feel confident going into the upcoming season.”
Your child’s care team will look at the whole picture of their health and identify and address issues that might impact the safety of participating in a sport.
They’ll look at:
- Family history
- Allergies
- Medications
- Conditions such as asthma, diabetes or seizure disorders
- Past injuries
- Hospitalizations and surgeries
- History of dizziness, chest pain or trouble breathing during exercise
2. How often do kids need to complete sports physicals?
The Wisconsin Interscholastic Athletic Association, the body that oversees middle and high school sports, requires student athletes to complete a sports physical every two years. April 1 is the earliest date of examination. That means a physical performed April 1 or later is valid for the following two school years. Check with the athletic department at your child’s school if you’re uncertain whether your child is due.
3. Who can perform sports physicals?
Physicians (MD and DO), nurse practitioners and physician assistants can perform sports physicals. Chiropractors are not eligible.
Sometimes schools offer clinics that provide sports physicals only. These qualify, but please note that sports physicals alone do not replace the need for a child’s annual checkup. It’s important for your child to keep up with routine care through their pediatric or family medicine office.
4. What does a sports physical include?
Before your child’s appointment, you’ll complete a form that asks several questions about their medical history. Completing the form in advance will help your child’s care team address any issues or concerns.
During your child’s exam, the care team typically will check:
- Height and weight
- Blood pressure and pulse
- Vision
- Heart and lungs
- Muscles, bones and joints
Doctors also will ask boys about testicle pain and girls about their periods.
“These are all areas also covered in a child’s annual checkup,” Dr. Gentile says. “Through completing an annual checkup and sports physical in the same visit, we can provide a comprehensive exam while also ensuring your child is up to date on vaccines and other preventive care.”
5. What if the physical uncovers a concern?
Sports physicals are designed to ensure kids can safely participate in sports. It’s rare for them to disqualify kids from participating. More often, they may prompt a need for medication, follow-up care or additional treatment such as physical therapy. The process also can help you and your child come up with plans to communicate to coaching staff, such as an asthma protocol.
6. How can I prepare for my child’s sports physical?
A few simple steps will help ensure a smooth and quick process:
- Complete all forms and questionnaires before arriving at your child’s appointment.
- Schedule extra time in your day to be present at the appointment with a minor child.
- Write down any questions you want to ask.
- Print and bring the appropriate WIAA form for sports physicals.
- Have copies of needed records or signed paperwork available as a reference.
Prepare for a Strong Season
The beginning of sports seasons always comes up faster than seems possible. Ensure your child is up to date on all their needs so they’re ready for practices and matches. Remember, even if they’re not due for a sports physical, they’ll need to complete an alternate year card.
“We love to see kids participate in sports,” Dr. Gentile says. “Doing so is great for their physical, emotional and social health. We’re happy to partner to help ensure a safe, successful season for student athletes.”
