School & Sports Physicals in Burlington, MA
Did you know that school physicals are required, especially if your child is transferring schools? Did you know sports physicals are also required if your child wants to play a sport? In fact, school and sports physicals are two important services your pediatrician provides.
Why School Physicals Are Important
If your child is transferring to a different school, or enrolling in a new school, your child will need a school physical. School physicals are important because during a school physical, your pediatrician can:
- Help identify potential medical issues early, so they can be treated
- Screen for behavioral problems and developmental delays, so they can be monitored and treated
- Provide recommended and required immunizations to help your child stay healthy
- Answer any questions you have about your child’s health
Why Sports Physicals Are Important
If your child wants to play a sport, your child will need a sports physical. Sports physicals are important because during a sports physical, your pediatrician can:
- Identify potential physical problems, to help prevent injuries
- Determine if your child is healthy enough to play a sport
- Address any concerns you have about your child playing a sport
What Happens During a School or Sports Physical
School and sports physicals contain a few important steps, including:
- Recording general information including your child’s height, weight, blood pressure, pulse, and temperature
- Performing a comprehensive physical examination including extremities, eyes, ears, nose, throat, and ears
- Performing a vision and hearing screening
- Performing a behavioral and developmental screening
- Ordering laboratory testing and/or imaging studies if necessary
A few steps are added for a sports physical, including an evaluation of your child’s:
- Muscle strength
- Breathing
- Flexibility
- Balance
- Reflexes
You want your child to enjoy starting a new school or playing a new sport, so it’s important your child is healthy. Regular school and sports physicals from your pediatrician can help.