
At Franconia Pediatrics in Alexandria, Virginia, board-certified pediatrician Monica Kharbanda, MD, offers convenient sports physicals for children of all ages. A sports physical helps ensure your child is healthy before they begin a school-related or community-based sport. To schedule a sports physical for your child, call the office or book an appointment online today.
request an appointmentWhat is a sports physical?
A sports physical helps determine if it is safe for your child to take part in an activity, and is often a requirement for your child’s participation in certain sports. A sports physical is also called a preparticipation physical exam, and may be done annually to make sure that your child’s health hasn’t changed since the former sports season. The physical typically includes a discussion of your child’s medical history as well as the actual physical examination.
Why does my child need a sports physical?
Although sports are a great way for your child to stay active, they do come with their health risks. Certain injuries are common among children who participate in sports. If your child is a returning athlete, a sports physical can help identify issues like hernias and sprains. Sports physicals also help identify any underlying conditions like asthma that can interfere with your child’s ability to play sports.
Is it possible my child won’t pass their sports physical?
Sports physicals help you protect your child from serious medical concerns. If your child is suffering from an underlying condition, it is possible that your child won’t be cleared to participate in sports. Conditions that can keep your child off the field include:
- A recent concussion
- An untreated heart murmur
- Uncontrolled asthma
If your child suffers from an underlying condition, they may require treatment before they can safely participate in sports. If your child doesn’t pass their sports physical, Dr. Kharbanda works with you to get them the care they need to get back on the field.
What happens during a sports physical?
During your child’s sports physical, Dr. Kharbanda begins with a discussion of their medical history. You should be prepared to talk about any past injuries, hospitalizations, underlying illnesses (like allergies or asthma), as well as any medications your child is taking. Then Dr. Kharbanda performs a physical, which starts with checking your child’s height, weight, and blood pressure. She also checks their vision, ears, nose, throat, breathing, heart, abdomen, and their posture and musculoskeletal system, including their joints and reflexes.
After the examination, if everything checks out, Dr. Kharbanda fills out your child’s sports physical form. She also gives you and your child information on ways to prevent sports injuries.
Sports physicals are typically only valid for one year. For your convenience, Dr. Kharbanda tries to incorporate sports physicals into your child’s wellness visit, as most school districts want school-related physicals to have been done after May 1st of the new school year.
To schedule your child’s sports physical, call Franconia Pediatrics or book an appointment online today.