Athletes wishing to play sports are required by most schools, colleges, and other organizations to get a sports physical, also known as a preparticipation physical examination, before beginning to play.
The purpose of the sports physical is to determine you are healthy enough to play in particular type of sport. A sports physical is done to ensure you don’t have a preexisting injury, condition, or ailment that could put you at risk for injuries or life-threatening situations while playing the sport. Depending on the type of sport you want to play, your sports physical may vary slightly. Since the need of various sports differ, the physical needs of the athlete can also differ. Sports physicals account for this nuance.
Why is a Sports Physical Important?
To participate in certain sports, you have to be healthy and capable of playing. Some people have preexisting conditions, illnesses, or injuries that could endanger their health if they play a sport. Examples include being anemic or obese and having a heart condition or diabetes. While not all preexisting conditions bar you from playing a sport, it is important to understand and manage any condition or illness you may have. The key is to take control your health, so you have minimal symptoms and effects on your wellbeing.
What Does a Sports Physical Include?
A sports physical will include a physical examination, in which a doctor checks your vitals and everything from your head to your toes. It also includes a lengthy discussion on your health history, including any injuries, surgeries, or serious illnesses you may have had. Finally, most sports physicals also include diagnostic testing. This could be as simple as a blood test to ensure there are no abnormalities. If you have preexisting conditions or had a serious injury in the past, your doctor may recommend additional testing.
Once the test results come in, your doctor will review them and based on what is discovered, you will get a determination on whether you should or should not play your desired sport.
What do I do if My Sports Physical Determines I Cannot Play Sports?
It is not very common for people to get a lifelong barring from playing sports from a sports physical. In fact, unless the condition or illness is chronic and serious in nature, most people are able to get treatment and can participate in sports. For example, someone who is anemic may need to increase their iron intake and get tested again in a few months. Once the results are good, they can participate in their desired sport.
Sports Physical Services in Rochester, New York
Cornerstone Urgent Care Center offers many types of physicals, including ones required for athletes, school admittance, and employment. If you would like to get a physical, our experts would love to help.
Call (585) 207-0088 for more information, or simply walk into our clinic whenever it is convenient for you. There is no need to make an appointment. However, you are welcome to let us know you are on your way by checking in online before coming in.
