Authored by BobbieJo Paul, FNP, Provider/Health Coach, Activate Healthcare
What is a sports physical?
A sports physical or sport clearance exam is an exam that is performed specifically to evaluate the health and safety of a person who intends to participate in a sport activity.
Why do I need to have a separate sports physical if I have an annual wellness exam?
Typically the annual wellness exam, while it is a complete exam, is focused on growth, development, and preventive health and wellness. The sports physical focuses on health and safety for the athlete. Sometimes it seems the exams are the same, but the focus for the provider are different. While the sports exam is not used to exclude people from participating, it can help identify those who may need further evaluation to make sure they can safely take part in sporting activities. The sports physical is also an opportunity to discuss potential health related issues that can happen during the activity, like sports injuries, and how to address them if they occur. While both exams are comprehensive, the sports physical is designed to focus on risk for injury, finding potential correctable problems, maintain health of the participant, assess fitness level, educate about injuries and other health related issues, and meet legal and insurance requirements.
What does a sports physical focus on?
The sports physical starts with a good health history. The physical exam is complete and focuses on making sure cardiac and orthopedic health are evaluated. If there is a concern, additional testing may be recommended.
How can I prepare for the physical exam?
Make sure you bring any necessary forms that need to be filled out and signed. Know your health history as well as family medical history. Also, try to plan ahead to get the physical done; sometimes a test might be required and you may need time to get the test done as well as receive the results.
ATI Active Care is a walk-in clinic, located in Waukesha, WI, that provides immediate care for non-emergency acute conditions, physicals, health screenings, preventive health and wellness programs. For more information contact BobbieJo Paul at bobbiejopaul@activatehealthcare.com or call 262-574-2711.