What to Expect During a Sports Physical for Children

Is your child considering joining a new league or sports team this semester? If so, the administrators in your child’s school district will likely require those interested to have a sports physical before they begin to play. According to Mid Kansas Pediatric Associates in Wichita, KS, sports physicals (also known as Preparticipation Physical Examinations (PPE)) are designed to ensure students are physically healthy enough to play certain sports or that they are playing on the correct level before the season begins.  

What to Expect During a Sports Physical?

 Sports physicals or PPE consist of two parts -

1. During the first portion of the exam, you and your child will be asked questions about both the child’s personal and family medical history. You may have to help your child answer some of these questions. 

• Previous surgeries/hospitalizations for the child.
• Serious Illnesses
• Current illnesses or concerning symptoms - such as dizziness, chest pain, and difficulty breathing.
• Past or current injuries – fractures/concussions/sprains, etc. 
• Allergens that your child reacts to. 
• Any current medications, which may include – 
  • Prescription medications.
  • Over-the-counter medication. 
  • Herbal supplements or remedies.
• Verification that immunizations are current and comply with the district’s requirements.  

2. The second part of your child’s sports physical will include a physical exam that focuses on areas that are relevant to the sport in question – 

• Height/weight.
• Blood pressure/pulse.
• Ears, nose, and throat.
• Vision.
• Heart and lung.
• The abdomen area.
• Posture, reflexes, and joint movement.
• Strength/Flexibility.

Note to Parents/Guardians –

 An office visit with your child’s pediatrician at Mid Kansas Pediatric Associates is an excellent time to talk about your concerns about your child’s inclusion or participation in the school sports league. It is easiest to jot down any questions/concerns you may have so that you can remember to ask all of them during your child’s appointment with our doctor.

It should be noted that sports physicals should not replace regular physicals. Sports physicals view the child’s physical health as it relates to athletic/sports issues, while yearly or regular physicals offer a more comprehensive look at the child’s overall health.  

Schedule Your Child's Sports Physicals with a Leading Wichita, KS, Pediatrician Near You

 The pediatricians and medical support staff at Mid Kansas Pediatric Associates are committed to assisting you in keeping your child healthy all year. For more information about the sports physicals we offer or to inquire about a consultation or appointment at one of three convenient locations call our Derby office at (316) 719-2001, West Wichita at (316) 773-3100, and East Wichita, KS, at (316) 634-2000 or online.