Everything You Need to Know About Yearly Physicals
Does your child really need a physical every year? You would be surprised at how many parents skip their child’s annual physical. Unless required, many families only visit the pediatrician when their child is unwell. The truth is that yearly physicals are a vital component of the health and development of your child. From monitoring growth milestones to ensuring vaccinations are up to date, physicals are essential to maintaining your child’s wellness.
Back-to-school physicals:
Some schools require your child to receive a back-to-school physical exam before the school year begins. These exams are an excellent opportunity for your pediatrician to screen your child for physical, mental, and emotional conditions that may impact their learning. As part of their physical, your pediatrician will measure height and weight, obtain a blood pressure starting at age three, and administer any vaccinations required for your child. This appointment is also an excellent opportunity to discuss concerns about your child’s development and any issues you may have noticed with their learning.
Sports Physicals:
Sports physicals are slightly different from back-to-school or annual physicals. These appointments ensure your child is healthy enough to participate in athletics. As with standard physical, a sports physical will also measure height and weight and administer necessary vaccinations. In addition to these routine checks, your pediatrician will also check your child’s heart health, blood pressure, and test their strength and flexibility. Furthermore, specific types of physicals may be required for certain athletes or conditions, such as:
- Special Needs Athletes: Yearly physicals are an integral component in ensuring that special needs athletes receive medical attention for current disabilities and reduce the chance that injury will occur during competition.
- Concussion Protocol: Many sports contact athletes are put at risk of concussions or head injuries. Your pediatrician must be informed of all concussions and any physical ailment resulting from head injuries. This will allow your pediatrician to provide specific treatment plans to address concussions and prevent long-term side effects. When monitoring your child post-concussion, keep an eye out for headaches, inability to concentrate, and trouble sleeping.
Annual Well Visit:
Many parents and caregivers follow a child well-visit schedule. This schedule begins at birth and progresses until the age of 18. Each visit tracks the health and development of your child, provides recommended vaccinations, and gives parents a safe space to discuss any developmental issues they may notice in their child. Each well-child visit measures and tracks your child’s general health and development, establishing a baseline for their well-being and allowing your pediatrician to address any unique concerns about your child’s wellness.
Yearly physicals are more than simply checking off assessment milestones and vaccination requirements. They are an investment in your child’s wellness. If you would like to schedule your child’s yearly physical with Dr. Raymond Deeb, Dr. Rebecca McCoy, or Dr. Nicholas Kelly, contact Briarcliff Pediatrics today. Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook and Instagram for more health tips and updates.
