PRE-PHYSICAL EXAMINATIONS

Playing sports is a great way to have fun and stay fit.And anyone who has played a sport knows that you need to pay a little more attention to health.If you play a team sport, you may have had a physical exam.A pre-physical exam is a visit to the doctor to make sure you are fit to play the sport you want.

Pre-game physical exams aren’t just for kids.Even superheroes need to go to the doctor to make sure they are healthy and strong before entering the field.

Maybe you think you only need to go to the doctor when you’re sick or once a year for a check-up, but when you run, kick, throw, swim, and do stunts, your body works hard.That’s why physical examination is important, especially if you’re about to start swimming in competitions;practicing artistic gymnastics;or playing a team sport, such as soccer, baseball, football, or basketball.

What happens during the predeportive physical exam?

The predeportive physical exam is divided into two main parts: the medical history and the physical exam.

Your medical history includes questions about illnesses you’ve had, such as asthma or a broken leg.It’s important to know what medical problems are common in your family or what medicines you take every day.For example, did anyone in your family have a heart problem?Another important question is whether you ever fainted, felt dizzy, or felt chest pain while running or playing a sport.You’ll have to fill out a form with your mom or dad to get the answers the same.During the physical exam, your doctor may ask you more questions.

During the physical exam, the doctor will:

• measure your height control your weight

• measure your blood pressure

• hear your heart and lungs

• feel your abdomen examine your ears, nose and throat check your sight test your strength and flexibility

This is your chance to ask any questions you have about health and sports.

What if the doctor thinks is something is not good?

The good news is that practically all children can play the sports they like.If you have a health problem, you can generally take a medicine or receive a treatment that will allow you to play the sport of your choice safely.If you have an old injury, your doctor may suggest exercises and other treatments to help you recover.Even children with serious health problems find a sport they can play.

Where to have a physical exam

You will probably go to your regular doctor’s office to have the physical exam. Some older children may be able to have a physical exam at school. Sometimes, schools use the gym or other large space for pre-physical exams and there are several doctors with everything you need. You will go from one doctor to another and each of them will do a different part of the exam.

Your parents are responsible for arranging an appointment for a pre-natal physical. It’s best to do it about 6 weeks before the start of the season, so be sure to plan ahead. Even if you have a physical exam, it’s a good idea to do an annual checkup. Your regular doctor knows you better and can more easily detect changes in your overall health.

Once you’ve had your physical exam and the doctor gives you your approval, you can start with the fun part: becoming the best athlete!

Pitone, M. [2016] Predeportive physical exams. KidsHealth. Recovered from: https:///kidshealth.org/es/kids/sports-physicals-esp.html?WT.ac=p-ra#catsports-psychology