Roanoke
Salem
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QUESTION: My child’s school requires a physical exam by a doctor every year so that she can play a sport. Isn’t that a waste of time? ANSWER: The American Medical Association has stated that every athlete has the right to a "thorough pre-season history and physical." In fact, thirty-five states require yearly medical exams by law. This is in part to meet the legal and insurance requirements of the team. However, it is also a valuable service to the participant to identify medical problems that might place the athlete at extra risk for injury or problems that might compromise performance. Serious heart ailments sometimes can be diagnosed by changes in pulse or blood pressure. There have been several well-publicized instances recently of young athletes collapsing due to heart problems. Medical conditions like mononucleosis can produce an enlarged spleen that is at risk to rupture in contact sports. Weak thigh muscles can increase the risk of kneecap dislocation or cruciate ligament tears. Less serious problems can still interfere with optimum performance. A visual screening can pick up a need for eyeglasses. An orthopedic exam can identify specific muscles that need stretching or strengthening. Even problems like minor foot deformities or differences in the length of a child’s legs can slow an athlete’s running. Due to rapid growth, an adolescent athlete’s body can change dramatically from one year to the next. For that reason, a yearly physical by your pediatrician or orthopedist is a prudent course of action. |
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WRITTEN BY: William M. Mirenda, Jr., M. D.
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