Sports Physical Specialist

What is a sports physical?

The state of Nebraska requires that children in 8th grade and above undergo a sports physical to ensure that they’re healthy enough to engage in athletics. A sports physical evaluates your child’s health, identifies any issues that may prevent their engagement in sports, and may include recommendations for treatments, lifestyle changes, and training. If your child was injured, a sports physical determines when it’s safe for them to return to their sport.

What happens during a sports physical?

During a sports physical, the doctor evaluates your child’s general health, including:

• Blood pressure
• Heart rate
• Reflexes
• Vision
• Height and weight
• Heart and lung health
• Posture 
• Joint strength and flexibility

They also check your child’s abdomen, ears, nose, and throat.

Is a medical history part of a sports physical?

Your child’s medical history of past injuries and illnesses is an important part of a sports physical. Your provider also asks if anyone in your family has had serious conditions, such as heart disease, respiratory disease, or cancer.

If your child is female, your provider asks about her periods and diet. Some females who are heavily involved in sports develop weak bones because of overactivity and poor nutrition.

Your child must share information about drug use, alcohol use, or smoking. Even taking steroids to build muscle or using supplements can affect health. Be sure your provider knows about medications, supplements, or performance enhancers your child uses.

What happens after a sports physical?

If your child’s sports physical has identified problem areas, the doctor may recommend:

• Lifestyle changes
• Additional tests
• Changes in medications

If your child has a chronic health issue, such as asthma, your doctor may have tips on how to deal with symptoms and minimize their impact on play. In addition, they may recommend routines and training tips to reduce the risk of injury, such as how to properly warm-up, cool down, and move safely. Once your child is cleared for play, your provider signs the paperwork for you.

When should my child get a sports physical?

In Nebraska, your child should get a sports physical after May 1 with paperwork turned in before the first day of practice. Check with your child’s school or coach to be sure of any specific requirements for their sport. Your child should get another sports physical after an injury or serious illness. 

To set up a sports physical, contact Midwest Regional Health Services by phone or online form.