Why Are School Physicals So Important?


 

For a kid, the summer may feel endless, but as summer continues, parents begin thinking about backpacks, pencils and school physicals. What makes the school physical such a critical part of planning the new year? Read on to discover.

A Healthy Lifestyle Right From the Start

Physicals are important throughout your life. It enables you to screen for diseases, keep vaccinations current and get the information you need to stay fit and healthy. This is true at any age, so by taking your child in for a school physical exams, you reinforce this positive step towards a healthy lifestyle.

For many children, it may be scary to visit a medical office. However, an annual visit eliminates some of the mystery and helps kids adjust to the idea that the physician or advanced nurse practitioner is there to help, not hurt.

Dealing with Life’s Problems

Kids face a lot these days — from peer pressure to cyberbullying. Clinicians at MedPost are trained to see warning signs that parents may miss. This can include symptoms of developmental problems, mental health concerns and other issues that can affect your child’s quality of life.

An annual physical gives you time to talk about concerns you have, too, like how to talk about sex, positive self-image or how much time is “too much” in front of the computer each day.

What to Expect During a School Physical

A school physical is a comprehensive exam based on guidelines provided by the American Academy of Pediatrics. The goal is to screen for medical and mental health problems. Typically, clinicians gauge the maturity level of the child and compare it to what is expected of someone in that age group.

The physician or advanced nurse practitioner will discuss with you the medical history of your child and determine if all his or her immunizations are up to date. A record is made of your child’s weight, height and vital signs. The exam will include looking at the ears, mouth and skin for common problems. You can expect your clinician to check the heart, lungs and throat, as well.

Preparing for the School Physical

As you and your child prepare for that physical, make a list of anything you want to discuss. Have you noticed any specific behaviors or problems that you’d like checked out?

Make a list of questions you want to ask, too. For example:

  • Is it safe for your child to play sports?
  • What vitamins should you give your son or daughter each day?
  • How many hours of sleep are necessary during the school season?
Location: New York, NY, USA

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Annual Physical Exam in Shelton: Are You Skipping This Crucial Health Check?

Image
When was the last time you had a complete physical exam? Do you really know what’s happening inside your body, or are you waiting for symptoms to appear? Many people in Shelton, CT, delay routine checkups, thinking they feel healthy. But scheduling an annual physical exam in Shelton, CT is one of the smartest steps you can take to prevent serious health problems before they start. What Is an Annual Physical Exam? An annual physical exam is a thorough health evaluation by a licensed medical professional. Typical components include: Review of medical history and lifestyle habits Vital signs check: blood pressure, heart rate, BMI Blood and urine tests Heart, lung, and abdominal examination Age- and gender-specific preventive screenings Why Annual Physical Exams Are Vital 1. Early Detection Saves Lives Routine exams identify conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, and high cholesterol early, making treatment more effective. 2. Personaliz...
Read more

The Importance of Sports Physicals

Image
As a parent, ensuring the health and well-being of your children is your top priority. One essential step in safeguarding their health, especially if they are involved in sports, is scheduling regular sports physicals. These exams, often required before participating in organized sports, play a crucial role in identifying potential health issues and preparing young athletes for the physical and mental demands of their chosen activities. Early Detection of Health Issues Sports physical exams are designed to detect any underlying health problems that could affect your child’s ability to safely participate in sports. During the exam, health care providers assess various aspects of your child’s health, including heart and lung function, blood pressure, and musculoskeletal health. Identifying issues such as heart murmurs, asthma, or joint problems early can prevent serious complications during strenuous activities. Establishing a Baseline for Health A sports physical provides a c...
Read more

Sports and School Physical Exams

Image
If your child has decided to play a sport this season, don't forget to register them for a sports physical. These exams, also known as pre-participation physical exams (PPEs), are required by many schools and states. Even if your child is not playing a sport, many schools require your child to undergo a physical before returning to school. Both sports and school physicals cover the basics of your child’s health. However, a PPE includes the goal of assessing your child's ability to safely play a sport. What to expect To begin your child's physical, your healthcare provider may ask questions about family history, previous surgeries, allergies, past injuries, complications during exercise and any medications your child takes. Then, your healthcare provider will perform the physical, examining your child's: Abdomen, heart, lungs, ears, nose and throat Blood pressure and heart rate Height and weight Hearing and vision Strength, ...
Read more