Physical exams are a normal aspect of preventative care that helps keep your child safe and healthy. They are required for after-school sports but not required for each grade. As the summer is speeding by, back to school is almost here!

Waiting for an appointment with your child’s pediatrician can be untimely and inconvenient. AFC Urgent Care Ken Caryl is open seven days a week. This means you and your child can visit when it works for your schedule. Weekend physical exams are available every week! Visit our walk-in clinic for any urgent care service today.

Why are Physical Exams Important?

Physical exams are important for your child’s development and overall health. They’re meant to make any teacher, coach, or mentor aware of potential health risks that could make your child sick or have them end up in the hospital.

The medical providers at AFC Ken Caryl will be able to determine if your child is showing signs of asthma or heart issues. These are important to be aware of while playing sports that include running or physical contact. It’s recommended to receive a physical exam six weeks before the start of any sports, but you are able to visit AFC Ken Caryl at any time.

What is Included in a Physical?

Sports and school physicals are very similar to a routine physical exam. The medical provider will:

• Measure your child’s height, weight, and blood pressure
• Thoroughly examine your child’s eyes, ears, neck, throat, heart, lungs, and abdominal region, and assess their strength and reflexes. If there are any areas that are concerning, further examinations may be necessary
• Updated vaccinations

The medical provider will also discuss your child’s family medical history. This is critical when it comes to symptoms and potential ailments your child may develop.

How Should I Prepare?

Be sure to bring any necessary paperwork for the medical provider to sign. This should be found on your child’s school website. It is also helpful to have an updated list of their vaccinations, as well as knowledge of their family medical history. When visiting the pediatrician, these things aren’t as necessary as they’re already aware. A new medical facility won’t have access to this information.

Once the examination is over, the provider will sign off on the clearance for your child to play sports. If there are any areas of concern, further tests or referrals will be made to specialists. Visit AFC Urgent Care Ken Caryl for a school or sports physical today!