Each year in the spring, young Mississippi athletes all over the state head to their family medical provider’s office for their annual sports physical. Sometimes, the sports physical is the only exam a young athlete will undergo in a year, but children need more than a sports physical to determine the accurate state of their health.
In addition to a sports physical, your young athletes also need an annual physical exam each and every year. The good news is that most providers will allow you to schedule these important exams at the same appointment. The providers at Mantachie Rural Healthcare can not only see your children at our clinic for their annual physical and sports physical, but we can also take care of these exams at our school-based clinic at Mantachie School which means parents don’t need to miss work for their child’s appointment.
What to Expect at a Sports Physical
A sports physical focuses on your child’s current health status and medical history to ensure your child is healthy enough to take the field. Their provider will also review pre-existing injuries and assess your athlete’s current fitness level. Areas of focus during a sports physical include:
- Height and weight
- Vision and hearing
- Heart health
- Blood pressure
- Muscle and bone health
- Flexibility and strength
What Happens During a Pediatric Annual Physical
Annual physicals take a more in-depth look at your child’s overall health. In addition to their physical health, annual exams also focus on the developmental, emotional, and social aspects of your child’s health. Areas of focus in an annual physical for children include:
- Health history
- Immunizations
- Lab work if needed
- A behavioral and developmental screening if necessary
- Nutrition and sleep habits
- Preventative health
- Adolescent issues
Their provider will take a look at your child’s overall health history as well as your family’s medical history. They may also discuss important factors in your child’s development such as puberty, healthy relationships, peer pressure, and drug and alcohol use.
Need to schedule your child’s annual exam and sports physical? Dial or 662-282-4226 to schedule an appointment at our clinic, or if your child attends Mantachie schools, contact the school’s office to request a form to send your child to our school-based clinic.