As the new sports season approaches, high school athletes are eager to hit the field, court, or track. However, before jumping into the action, there’s an essential step that every young athlete should complete: a sports physical. At LOMA Health and Wellness, we believe that a sports physical is not just a formality—it’s a vital component of athlete safety and wellbeing. Here are the top reasons why every high school athlete needs a sports physical before the season begins.
1. Ensures Overall Health and Fitness
A sports physical provides a comprehensive health assessment, identifying any underlying medical conditions that could affect athletic performance or pose risks during activity. It’s an opportunity for your healthcare provider to review your medical history, current health status, and fitness level, helping you start the season on the right foot.
2. Detects Hidden Medical Conditions
Some conditions, such as heart problems, asthma, or epilepsy, may not show obvious symptoms but can be dangerous when participating in intense physical activity. A thorough physical exam can uncover these hidden issues, allowing for proper management or necessary adjustments to your participation.
3. Prevents Serious Sports Injuries
Sports physicals help identify weaknesses or areas at risk for injury. By addressing these issues early—such as muscle imbalances or joint concerns— coaches and healthcare providers can recommend appropriate training or modifications to reduce the risk of injuries like sprains, fractures, or concussions.
4. Provides Peace of Mind for Parents and Coaches
Parents want their teens to compete safely, and coaches need to know their players are medically cleared. Completing a sports physical ensures everyone involved has peace of mind, knowing that the athlete is physically prepared and cleared to participate without undue risk.
5. Legal and League Compliance
Many high school sports leagues require an up-to-date sports physical before permitting participation. Staying ahead of these deadlines avoids last-minute scrambles or disqualifications once the season begins.
6. Supports Peak Performance
When an athlete’s health is properly assessed and managed, they’re more likely to perform at their best. Addressing potential health issues upfront can eliminate disruptions during training or competitions, allowing your teen to focus on their game.
7. Promotes Long-Term Health and Wellness
A sports physical isn’t just about the current season—it encourages a culture of health prioritization. Regular checkups foster good habits, ensure ongoing care, and help catch issues early in their development, supporting your teen’s overall wellness beyond sports.
Get Ready for a Safe and Successful Season!
Don’t wait until the last minute—schedule your high school athlete’s sports physical today at LOMA Health and Wellness. Our team is dedicated to ensuring your young athlete starts the season healthy, confident, and ready to excel.
Contact us today to book an appointment and help your teen participate safely in their favorite sport!
Below are some further resources:
American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) — Sports Participation and Physical Examinations
https://pediatrics.aappublications.org/content/133/3/e794
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) — Youth Sports Safety
https://www.cdc.gov/healthyschools/sports/index.htm
National Athletic Trainers’ Association — Pre-Participation Physical Evaluation
https://www.nata.org/advocacy/state-policy/pre-participation-evaluation
Mayo Clinic — Sports Injury Prevention
https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/fitness/in-depth/sports-injury/art-20045789
American College of Sports Medicine — Recommendations for Youth Sports
https://journals.humankinetics.org/view/journals/ssc/12/2/article-p115.xml