As the sports season approaches, UW Health is reminding student athletes and their parents to schedule pre-participation physical exams. Seasoned parents understand the necessary steps their children must take in order to participate in tryouts and train for their favorite sports. Schools and clubs typically require athletes to complete a physical exam before they can enroll in sports.
Sara Gaddini, a family nurse practitioner at UW Health, emphasizes the importance of these physical exams. Not only do they allow athletes to play sports safely, but they also provide an opportunity to assess the healthcare needs of adolescents and communicate that information to schools and coaches. The exams review the student’s health history and examine their cardiovascular and musculoskeletal systems, looking for any conditions that could pose risks to the athletes.
While retail-based clinics and schools may offer physical exams, Gaddini recommends getting them done at a primary care provider. This allows for more privacy, making it more likely that kids will feel comfortable sharing any concerns they may have during the exam. Additionally, primary care providers have access to the athlete’s health information, baseline, and can monitor their growth over time, providing a more comprehensive assessment.
By prioritizing pre-participation physical exams with a primary care provider, student athletes can ensure they are in good health to participate in sports and address any underlying health concerns that may arise. Copyright 2024 WIFR. All rights reserved.