Sports Physical

The Sports Physical exam helps determine whether it's safe for you to participate in a particular sport. Most states actually require that kids and teens have a sports physical before they can start a new sport or begin a new competitive season.

The two main parts to a sports physical are the medical history and the physical exam.

Medical History

This part of the exam includes questions about:

• serious illnesses among other family members
• illnesses that you had when you were younger or may have now, such as asthma, diabetes, or epilepsy
• previous hospitalizations or surgeries
• allergies (to insect bites, for example)
• past injuries (including concussions, sprains, or bone fractures)
• whether you've ever passed out, felt dizzy, had chest pain, or had trouble breathing during exercise
• any medications that you are on (including over-the-counter medications, herbal supplements, and prescription medications)

Physical Examination

During the physical part of the exam, the doctor will usually:

• record your height and weight
• take a blood pressure and pulse (heart rate and rhythm) reading
• test your vision
• check your heart, lungs, abdomen, ears, nose, and throat
• evaluate your posture, joints, strength, and flexibility
• Urinalysis

Why Is a Sports Physical Important?

A sports physical can help you find out about and deal with health problems that might interfere with your participation in a sport. For example, if you have frequent asthma attacks but are a starting forward in soccer, a doctor might be able to prescribe a different type of inhaler or adjust the dosage so that you can breathe more easily when you run.