Your child may need a sports physical if he or she will be participating in an individual or team sport that is recreational or competitive. Sports physicals ensure your child is healthy and in good physical condition to participate in athletic activities. Sports physicals also give your child’s pediatrician an opportunity to identify potential health concerns, such as asthma, that could be problematic while participating in sports. At Kenneth J Kim Pediatrics, Dr. Kenneth Kim is your pediatrician for children’s sports physicals in Fairfax, VA.

Sports Physicals

Sports physicals include a thorough physical examination. This allows the pediatrician to verify your child is in good physical health and has not developed a health condition that would be aggravated by participation in sports. While your child is being examined, the doctor might advise you about how best to prevent incurring injuries while playing sports. In Fairfax, VA, children’s sports physicals include an examination of the following:

• Lungs and breathing
• Pulse and heartbeat
• Blood pressure
• Reflexes
• Vision
• Throat
• Abdomen
• Weight
• Height

In addition to a thorough physical examination, the doctor will inquire about your child’s daily physical activity and dietary habits to make sure everything is normal. Other things the doctor might ask about include whether your child is taking any medications; has any allergies; is experiencing any unusual symptoms, such as chest pain or dizziness; or if there is a history of serious injury or illness.

A sports physical is needed to ensure your child is healthy enough to participate in sports. In many cases, a sports physical is required by the school or organization sponsoring the sport. Without a current physical, your child might not be able to play. In Fairfax, VA, children’s sports physicals are available at Kenneth J Kim Pediatrics. To schedule a physical for your child with Dr. Kim, call the office at (703) 246-0022.