Sports Physicals

What is a sports physical?

Sports physicals, sometimes called preparticipation physical examination (PPE), help to determine whether it's safe for you to participate in certain sports. 

Many states require children and teens to have a sports physical before they can begin a new sport or competitive season. However, even if a sports physical isn't required, Millenium Elite Primary Care recommends getting one.

What does a sports physical entail?

A sports physical has two primary components. We ask about your medical history and perform a physical exam.

Medical history

Your medical history helps identify any underlying conditions you might have that could affect your ability to participate in athletics. Their questions may include:

• Illnesses you had when you were younger 
• Conditions affecting you now, like asthma, diabetes, or epilepsy
• Previous hospitalizations or surgeries
• Past injuries
• Whether you've had a history of passing out, feeling dizzy, chest pain, or difficulty breathing during exercise
• Allergies and medications
• Known serious illnesses among family members

Learning more about your medical history helps us establish a baseline for your health, considering your circumstances.

Physical exam

We check a variety of things during your physical exam. You can expect her to:

• Assess your height and weight
• Check your blood pressure and pulse
• Examine your heart, lungs, abdomen, ears, nose, and throat
• Assess your vision
• EKG
• Blood work may be needed based on history
• Evaluate your posture, joints, strength, and flexibility
• Discuss your use of drugs, alcohol, and dietary supplements

If everything seems fine at the end of your exam, we complete the necessary documentation proving you're fit enough to participate in your sport. In some cases, we may recommend a follow-up exam, additional tests, or specific treatment for a medical condition.

Why are sports physicals important?

A sports physical can help determine if you have an underlying health condition that could affect your ability to participate in a sport safely.

For instance, if you suffer from frequent asthma attacks but really want to try out for a school sports team, we can adjust your inhaler to help you breathe more easily when you're running.

We may also recommend stretching or strengthening activities to help you avoid injury.

If you're looking to jump into a sports season, schedule your sports physical today. Call Millenium Elite Primary Care or request an appointment online.