Why Your Athlete Needs a Sports Physical

Parents, does it seem like your “to do” list is never done? Must you also add “schedule a sports physical” to that list?

There are solid reasons to make time for the pre-participation physical examination (PPE), says Beau Sasser, MD. As a board-certified orthopaedic surgeon and sports medicine specialist with Summit Sports Medicine & Orthopaedic Surgery, Dr. Sasser has seen his share of sports injuries. He also serves as vice chief of Surgery at Southeast Georgia Health System on the Brunswick Campus and director of its Sports Medicine Program.

Beyond protecting young athletes, the PPE is a legal requirement. “The state of Georgia requires that all student athletes have a sports physical before competing in any school-sanctioned sport. The same holds true for most recreational or club leagues. The coach or school can provide the forms your physician needs to sign,” Dr. Sasser says.

During the exam, several assessments will help ensure that your child or teen is physically prepared for the sport they are about to play. “We want to ensure their health and safety,” Dr. Sasser says.

According to Dr. Sasser, a sports physical exam:

• Evaluates overall health
• Determines physical fitness and conditioning
• Assesses previous or current injuries
• Checks for conditions that might make a person susceptible to injury
• Assesses developmental maturity

A sports physical is similar to a routine physical, with additional objectives. “The physician checks whether the athlete has certain health conditions such as diabetes, asthma, chest pain or a family history of heart attack, all of which are affected by rigorous physical activity and must be effectively managed. They will also ask if your child has had any previous surgeries or recent illnesses,” Dr. Sasser says.

Measuring height and weight seems routine, but it’s important since growth spurts and weight gain can impact the joints, muscles and bones. In addition to evaluating musculoskeletal structure, the doctor will examine your child’s vision. If your athlete wears eyeglasses or contacts, their corrected vision should be 20/50, and proper eye protection should also be discussed.

The fitness check portion of the exam evaluates posture, strength, flexibility and joints to spot areas that might be injury-prone and discusses ways to strengthen those areas. During the PPE, parents should mention which sport their son or daughter is playing, how often and at what level and share any concerns or questions they have.

One final point: A sports exam doesn’t eliminate the need for routine checkups. “A routine annual physical allows you to keep up with routine immunizations, evaluate your child’s growth and development and address any other concerns you have about their physical or emotional health,” Dr. Sasser says.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Sasser, call 912-466-7340.