Hemby Bridge Elementary and Porter Ridge Middle School spring sports are upon us! But before your child can participate, he or she needs a sports physical first.

Our AFC Urgent Care Indian Trail team explains why below.

Why Does My Child Need a Sports Physical?

Sports physicals are required in the state of North Carolina, but why? Well, they raise awareness of any issues, like hernias and uncontrolled asthma, that may interfere with your child’s ability to participate in a sport.

Sports physicals are also a great opportunity to talk to a healthcare professional about ways that your athlete may be prone to injury and suggest tips and exercises that he or she can do to avoid future problems. If you are unfamiliar with what kinds of information your healthcare provider will need during a sports physical, we’ve listed a common outline below.

What a Common Sports Physical Entails

• Serious illnesses among family members
• Illnesses that your child may have now, such as asthma, diabetes or epilepsy
• Allergies
• Past injuries, including concussions, sprains or bone fractures
• Whether your child ever passed out, felt dizzy, had chest pain or had trouble breathing during exercise
• Any medications your child is on, including over-the-counter medications, herbal supplements and prescription medications
• Height and weight
• Strength of your child’s heart, lungs, abdomen, ears, nose and throat
• Your child’s posture, joints, strength and flexibility

So When Should My Athlete Get One?

Most schools require a sports physical to be done before your athlete starts his or her specific sport.

For a little more info about what could cause your child to fail his or her physical, we’ve listed some typical causes for concern below.

Typical Causes for Concern in Sports Physicals

• Previous illnesses, such as asthma or diabetes
• Past bone breaks or muscle tears
• Poor heart health
• Allergies to different bug bites, stings, etc.

Our AFC Urgent Care Indian Trail offers sports physicals, so don’t hesitate to stop by today!