Before kids can hit the field or court this coming school semester, they’ll need a sports physical first! But why are they necessary?

Our AFC Urgent Care Clemson team has some answers, so read on.

What Is a Sports Physical?

A sports physical, known in the medical field as a pre-participation physical examination (PPE), helps to determine whether a child (or adult) is physically able to safely participate in a sport.

To do this, your healthcare provider or doctor will ask questions about your child’s family history and perform a physical exam. The medical history questions are usually quite extensive, so we’ve listed the usual info most health professionals will need below so you can get an idea.

Common Medical History Questions

• Serious illnesses among family members
• Illnesses that your child currently has or had when he or she was younger, such as asthma, diabetes or epilepsy
• Previous hospitalizations or surgeries
• Allergies (to insect bites, for example)
• Past injuries, including concussions, sprains or bone fractures
• Whether your child has ever passed out, felt dizzy, had chest pain or had trouble breathing during exercise
• Any medications that your child is on, including things like over-the-counter medications, herbal supplements and prescription medications

Why Is a Sports Physical Even Necessary?

Well, first of all, the state of South Carolina requires a sports physical before your student-athlete can practice or participate in his or her specific sport. Second of all, sports physicals are important because they can help you, as the parent, find out about and deal with health problems that might interfere with your child’s participation in a sport.

Plus, visiting our local AFC center for a physical is a great opportunity to talk to a top-quality healthcare professional about ways and tips for your student-athlete to avoid injury and stay healthy.

Components of Physical Exam

• Record height and weight
• Take blood pressure and pulse
• Perform a vision test
• Check heart, lungs, abdomen, ears, nose and throat
• Evaluate posture, joints, strength and flexibility

Our AFC Urgent Care Clemson center offers sports physicals, so make sure you stop in today before your child hits the practice field!