Why Your Child Should See a Pediatrician for Their School and Sports Physicals

Students entering certain grades or participating in sports need a school or sports physical. Physicals help keep children up to date with their vaccinations and ensure they are healthy enough to safely participate in certain activities without risking their health. Seeing a pediatrician for a school or sports physical is a great option since they specialize in treating kids. In Tampa, and Riverview, FL, sports & school physicals are provided by Dr. Elizabeth Yakubu and Dr. Alrick Drummond of Children’s Health Center.

Importance of School & Sports Physicals

There are several reasons why school and sports physicals are important. They are an excellent opportunity to ensure kids are current with the recommended vaccinations for their age. Physicals also provide an assessment of your child’s overall health. Potential concerns, such as new or unusual symptoms, can be addressed and treated. For example, shortness of breath could be a sign of asthma, while a rash could be indicative of an allergy.

If your child has an existing or a newly diagnosed condition, such as asthma, the pediatrician can provide guidance on safely participating in sports or physical education activities. For kids who will be playing sports, the doctor can recommend ways to prevent injuries, such as using a mouthguard, padding, or other protective gear.

Components of School & Sports Physicals

Sports & School physicals at our Tampa, and Riverview, FL, health centers include several components. One aspect of the physical is a review of your child’s individual and family medical histories. This helps the pediatrician know if there are certain health issues to check for when examining your child.

In addition to reviewing the medical history, a physical exam will also be performed. Some key areas assessed during the physical exam include:

• Blood pressure
• Height and weight
• Heart rate/pulse
• Lungs/breathing
• Joints and muscles
• Reflexes and posture
• Ears, nose, and throat
• Vision

Pediatricians specialize in helping kids stay healthy. For sports & school physicals in Tampa and Riverview, FL, contact Children’s Health Center to schedule an appointment with one of our experienced providers, Dr. Yakubu and Dr. Drummond. Call (813)-914-7772 for the Tampa office or (813)-677-2222 for the Riverview location.