Getting your kids involved in sports is a great way to help them stay healthy, learn important social skills, and have fun.
However, before your child can hit the field or court, they need to have a physical exam to make sure they are healthy enough to participate. Fortunately, many healthcare providers offer discounted exams for student athletes. In this article, we’ll discuss how to get your kids ready for sports with discounted exams.
Why Do Kids Need Sports Physicals?
Before your child can participate in sports, they need to have a physical exam. This is to ensure that they are healthy enough to play and that there are no underlying medical conditions that might put them at risk.
Some of the things that your child’s doctor will check during a sports physical include:.
- Height and weight
- Blood pressure
- Heart rate and rhythm
- Lungs and respiratory system
- Flexibility and range of motion
- Musculoskeletal health, including joints, muscles, bones, and spine
When Should You Schedule a Sports Physical?
You should schedule a sports physical for your child about 4-6 weeks before their sports season begins. This gives the doctor enough time to address any health concerns and for your child to follow any recommended treatments or therapies.
It will also give you time to complete any required paperwork or forms that are needed for your child to participate in sports.
Where Can You Get a Discounted Sports Physical?
Many healthcare providers offer discounted sports physicals for student athletes. You can check with your child’s doctor, your local health department, or even a walk-in clinic or urgent care center.
Some schools also offer sports physicals on-site, so be sure to check with your child’s school to see if this is an option.
How to Prepare for a Sports Physical
To prepare for a sports physical, make sure that your child wears comfortable, loose-fitting clothing. They should also bring any necessary paperwork or forms that need to be signed or completed by the doctor.
It’s also a good idea to bring a list of any medications your child is currently taking, as well as any allergies or medical conditions that they have.
What to Expect During a Sports Physical
During a sports physical, the doctor will typically take a medical history, perform a physical exam, and may recommend some lab work or imaging studies if they have any concerns.
The doctor will also discuss any potential risk factors or precautions that your child should be aware of. Finally, the doctor will sign any required paperwork or forms once the exam is complete.
The Benefits of Discounted Sports Physicals
The cost of healthcare can be a significant barrier for many families, especially those with multiple children or low-income households.
Discounted sports physicals can help make it easier for families to get the care that their children need to stay healthy and active. By taking advantage of discounted sports physicals, your child can get the care they need without breaking the bank.
Conclusion
Getting your kids ready for sports involves more than just buying the right equipment and signing them up for the team. It also means ensuring that they are healthy enough to participate.
By taking advantage of discounted sports physicals, you can help your child stay safe and healthy while also making sports more accessible to families who might otherwise be unable to afford the necessary healthcare. So if you’re getting your kids ready for sports this season, be sure to schedule a discounted sports physical to help prepare them for a healthy and successful season.