More than half of youth nationwide participate in organized sports, according to the most recent data from the National Survey of Children’s Health. With so many young athletes in action, one important step should never be overlooked: a pre-participation sports physical.
Why Sports Physicals Matter
Before starting most organized sports, children need medical clearance from a healthcare professional, such as a pediatrician or school health provider. Ideally, this exam should take place shortly before the sports season begins. The goal of the sports physical is simple: to make sure your child can safely participate.
What Happens During a Sports Physical?
For healthy children, the evaluation typically includes:
- A thorough medical history, including questions about symptoms during exercise such as shortness of breath, chest pain, dizziness, or unusual fatigue
- A comprehensive head-to-toe physical exam to identify any issues that could be worsened by the physical demands of sports
This evaluation helps identify potential concerns before they become serious problems.
What If My Child Has a Chronic Condition?
Many children with chronic medical conditions can safely participate in sports — often fully — but they may require additional evaluation or specialist clearance. Each child should be assessed individually.
Here are some common examples:
Asthma
Asthma and other respiratory conditions are common in children and many experience shortness of breath during sports. Proper warm-up exercises and using prescribed inhaled medications 15–20 minutes before activity can significantly reduce symptoms and allow safe participation.
Heart Conditions
Most childhood heart murmurs are benign and do not interfere with physical activity. However, children with heart murmurs, congenital heart disease, or heart rhythm disturbances should be evaluated by a pediatric cardiologist. In some cases, additional testing such as an ECG, echocardiogram, or exercise stress test may be needed.
Scoliosis
Children with mild scoliosis and no symptoms can usually participate fully in sports. Those with more significant spinal curvature may require bracing and clearance from a pediatric orthopedist before engaging in certain activities.
Seizure or Bleeding Disorders
Children with seizure disorders should have good seizure control on medication and receive clearance from a pediatric neurologist before participating in contact sports. Activities such as underwater swimming, diving, or rope climbing should generally be avoided due to the risk of injury if a seizure occurs.
Children with bleeding disorders (such as hemophilia) are typically advised to avoid contact sports due to increased risk of serious injury.
It’s important to remember that having a chronic condition does not automatically exclude a child from sports. With proper medical guidance and precautions, many children can participate safely and successfully.
Keeping Sports Safe, Healthy, and Fun
Sports offer tremendous physical, emotional, and social benefits. Once your child has been medically cleared, safety becomes an ongoing responsibility shared by parents, coaches, and young athletes themselves.
With proper preparation, thoughtful precautions, and a focus on safety and fun, athletics can be a safe and rewarding experience for young athletes — and a source of pride and joy for parents as well.
Dr. Gilbert Herzberg is a pediatrician at White Plains Hospital Physician Associates and sees patients at 750 White Plains Road in Scarsdale. To schedule an appointment, call 914-974-5437.