Sports Physicals

Sports physicals are often required for high school athletes, but they are also very valuable for kids in club team sports, and for adults who are looking at transitioning to a new sport or picking up an old one. Sports physicals help evaluate the systems in the body to ensure they are fit for physical activity. They can also identify areas that may need modification to avoid injury or overexertion.

Youth Athletes and Sports Physicals

Sports physicals for your student athlete help ensure they can play safely in their chosen sport as required by their school, the state, or their club team. At Northern Nevada Chiropractic, we recommend your student athlete get their sports physical at least six weeks before they start play. This gives adequate time to get the results to their coach or organization and allows us to work on any treatment plans necessary for them to have a successful season.

Student athletes should get a sports physical every year starting in 7th grade, but it is usually required by school sports teams that they have them at least leading up to their freshman and junior years.

Why an Adult Athlete Should Get a Sports Physical

There are many great adult sports leagues in our Reno area, especially with the two indoor sports domes for soccer, softball and basketball, and the Reno Ice hockey rink out south. Adults may be looking to pick up an old sport that was their favorite or try something new. As we age, injury is much more likely and tends to last longer so it is important to get a sports physical to ensure you are in good physical condition to play. Your doctor can also discuss any past injuries and how to avoid reinjury or specific stretches and warmups to prepare your body for play.

What is Assessed at a Sports Physical?

For student athletes, your doctor will gather a NIAA Preparticipation History Form, and perform a complete physical examination including: HEENT (head, eyes, ears, nose, throat), as well as skin, lymph nodes, abdomen, lungs, genitalia (males only), a cardiovascular exam, and a full musculoskeletal exam. The same will be done for adult athletes, only the medical intake form will be a standard format. We will also discuss any injuries or chronic conditions and how they may affect your ability to play in your chosen sport. The total appointment usually takes less than 30 minutes.

What if There are Issues Found?

Most sports physicals check out OK with no follow-up needed. If there are issues like sprains, strains, or other musculoskeletal system injuries, your chiropractor will work with you on a treatment plan before your season starts. They may also suggest physical therapy or sports massage. If there are abnormal findings with things like heart, lungs and blood pressure, our doctors at Northern Nevada Chiropractic can refer you to a licensed specialist in the appropriate field to help determine eligibility to play.