Sports Physicals

If you have a child who loves to play sports or be active in extracurricular activities, then a physical exam may be needed to participate.

At CHRISTUS Health, we offer physicals that are available for all sports and extracurricular activities including football, softball, cheer, band, drill team, and ROTC.

Our primary care providers will check your child's height, weight, blood pressure, vision, heart rate, lungs, stomach, ears, nose, throat, and reflexes to ensure it is safe for you or your child to start the sport or activity.

Sports and School Physicals

Sports physicals are examinations a medical professional conducts to assess an athlete's health and fitness level related to their sport.

Sports physical exams allow coaches, trainers, and parents to discuss health-related issues affecting athletes' performance or well-being.

Receiving a sports physical with primary care also helps establish a relationship between the athlete and their healthcare provider, which is beneficial for follow-up visits and long-term health.

What are the benefits of a sports physical?

A sports physical allows the healthcare provider to assess your overall health and fitness. In addition, providers can help identify any potential risk factors that could impact your performance or lead to injury. The physical exam can help detect underlying health issues like heart conditions or asthma.

The exam also allows the healthcare provider to answer questions and address any athlete's concerns regarding their participation in sports.

How to prepare for a sports physical?

Preparing for a sports physical is relatively easy.

• Bring a list of relevant medical histories or health problems, such as immunization records and other documents your doctor might find helpful.
• Provide information about current or past illnesses or conditions that may affect your performance.
• Outline any medications you take, as these may affect your sports performance.
• Wear comfortable clothing that allows easy movement and does not restrict breathing or circulation.

What to expect during a sports physical?

The exam typically includes questions about the athlete's medical history and injuries or illnesses they may have experienced.

A doctor will check for height and weight, vision, and check blood pressure, heart rate, and hearing and will perform a heart and lung health check.

The doctor or healthcare provider may check for signs of anemia, heart problems, breathing difficulties, and joint or muscle issues. They will also take the person's blood pressure and pulse.

Depending on the sport, they may conduct specific physical tests such as checking joint movement or flexibility.

The doctor will also ask questions such as whether the person smokes, if they take medications and whether they have suffered any injuries or illnesses.

Finally, the doctor may recommend safety equipment or discuss preventing injuries while playing the sport.

What can I expect after the physical is complete?

Once you finish your physical, you can expect a report from your doctor.

The report will provide information such as abnormal test results, general health assessment, and recommendations for further testing or treatment if necessary.

They may suggest further tests or additional medical treatments to address any underlying medical conditions identified.

The results may take anywhere from one day to two weeks, depending on the types of tests.