Medically reviewed by the Rice Emergency Room Medical Team

Dr. Amir Zegar, DO

Medically reviewed byDr. Amir Zegar, DOBoard-Certified Emergency Medicine Physician | Medical Director

As the school year begins, students at West University Elementary, West University Middle School, Lamar High School, and Rice University are gearing up for an exciting season of sports.

To ensure a child’s safety and health,  parents should prioritize a school sports physical before the year begins.

How A Physical Helps Prevent Serious Injuries With Early Detection

A comprehensive sports physical is more than just a routine check; it’s a fundamental step in identifying potential health issues that can lead to serious pediatric injuries. These exams are designed to uncover any physical or biological abnormalities that might put young athletes at risk (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2022).

For example, conditions such as heart abnormalities, respiratory issues, or musculoskeletal problems can often go unnoticed without a thorough examination.

The Role of School Sports Physicals

The primary goal of a sports physical is to ensure that a child is in good health and ready to participate in their chosen sport. This includes:

  • Medical History Review: The physician will ask about past injuries, existing medical conditions, and family health history to identify any pre-existing conditions that could impact athletic performance or safety (American College of Sports Medicine, 2022).
  • Physical Examination: This involves checking vital signs, evaluating cardiovascular and respiratory health, and assessing the musculoskeletal system to detect any potential issues that could lead to injuries (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2022).
  • Fitness Assessment: The Doctor may evaluate the child’s flexibility, strength, and overall physical fitness to ensure they are adequately prepared for their sport (American Academy of Pediatrics, 2020).
  • Advice and Recommendations: Based on the findings, the physician will provide recommendations for managing any identified issues and offer guidance on injury prevention strategies (American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine, 2021).

Types Of Injuries We Look For

Identifying the following risks early with a sports physical can help prevent them from developing into a more serious issue.

  • Football players are at risk for injuries like concussions, ligament tears, and fractures (National Football League, 2023).
  • Baseball players might experience shoulder injuries or elbow strain from repetitive pitching (American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine, 2021).
  • Volleyball players can suffer from ankle sprains or knee injuries, while track athletes might face stress fractures or muscle strains (National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, 2022).
  • Swimmers, too, can experience shoulder pain or swimmer’s ear (American College of Sports Medicine, 2022).
  • Basketball players are also at risk for injuries such as ankle sprains, knee injuries, and fractures from intense physical activity and frequent changes in direction (American Academy of Pediatrics, 2021).

The Role of Rice Emergency Room in School Sports Emergencies

In the event that an injury does occur, having a reliable medical facility ready to provide immediate care is important. Rice Emergency Room is equipped to handle all types of school sports emergencies.

Our advanced imaging and diagnostic capabilities allow for quick diagnosis of injuries, such as fractures or internal damage. Our on-site labs enable immediate testing with same visit results.

This level of comprehensive care ensures an athlete receives the necessary treatment without wait, while facilitating a quicker recovery and a quick return to their sport.

Get A School Sports Physical Today At Rice Emergency Room. There is no wait, you can walk in at anytime 24/7. 

You do not have to schedule a physical, all you have to do is walk-in and tell us why you are here. There is virtually no wait, and we have board certified Physicians on staff 24/7 for your entire family.

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