Request a Physical Examination for Playing Sports
When you or a child wants to participate in sports at school or in teams in your local community, you may need to have a professional physical examination from a physician. You don’t need to wait for several weeks for an appointment with your primary physician because urgent care centers offer this service. Make sure to bring along the forms that are required along with your insurance information so that you can have a physical performed as quickly as possible. We recommend making a copy of your immunization record so that you can complete the form in a timely manner. For sports, you are required to have the appropriate vaccines to protect you from some of the most dangerous diseases that are transmitted by skin-to-skin contact or with droplets from body fluids.
We Perform a Thorough Examination
A physician will weigh a patient along with checking the patient’s height against a chart to determine if the individual is underweight or obese. You may need a urinalysis test to determine if you have urinary tract infections, diabetes mellitus or other health issues. With a blood test, a physician can learn if you are anemic or have an infection in your body. It is a good idea to learn if you have a health issue that could make it dangerous to participate in some types of sports. You will also want to have your lungs checked to learn if you have asthma so that you can avoid respiratory distress while you are playing sports.
Preventing Injuries While Playing Sports
If a physician finds a medical problem, then it is better to learn about it before playing a sport that could make the condition worse. During the evaluation, a physician can make recommendations about participating in sports to avoid an injury, including:
- Wearing the type of helmet that is suggested for a particular sport
- Using a face guard while playing some types of sports
- Wearing pads on the knees, elbows, shoulders, or other areas of the body
- Using special goggles to protect your eyeballs and surrounding areas
- Wearing a mouth guard to protect your gums and teeth.
- Having protective devices for the genital region of the body
- Wearing gloves to protect the hands and fingers
Frequently Asked Questions about Sports Physicals
What occurs during a sports physical?
Do I need to bring anything to a sports physical?
How can a sports physical help prevent injuries?
Can you fail a sports physical?
Will I need to fast before a sports physical?
Come into WellCare
When you or your child want to participate in sports, it’s a good idea to get a physical examination to make sure that you are healthy and able to participate. Come into WellCare Urgent Care today to learn more about physical examinations for sports. You can schedule a same-day appointment at our Cascade and Leonard offices online.
