UW Health reminds student athletes to get summertime sports physicals

ROCKFORD, Ill. (WIFR) – UW Health reminds student athletes and their parents to schedule pre-participation physical exams.

Seasoned parents are aware of the hoops their children need to complete in order to compete in tryouts and training for their favorite sports. Schools and clubs require athletes to get a pre-participation physical exams before enrolling in sports.

“It can be a scramble and no one wants to delay playing in the sport that they love,” UW Health family nurse practitioner, Sara Gaddini says. “Sports and school physicals gives us the opportunity to assess the healthcare needs of the adolescence and communicate that to their schools and coaches. It allows them to play sports safely and to identify any other health care needs that they might have.”

The exams review student’s health history and examines the cardiovascular and musculoskeletal systems. Physicals can also detect conditions that could pose risks to athletes.

Retail-based clinics or schools often lack privacy, which can make it less likely for kids to share concerns during the exam.

“Obtaining your sports or school physical at your primary care provider is always a great idea,” Gaddini says. “We have your health information. We know your baseline. We can assess your growth and we can identify any needs or wants that you may have and answer questions.”

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