Children often need a physical for school or sports, but they should have one every year even if it isn’t required. Physicals offer many benefits, such as ensuring your child is in good health and is growing and developing within the standard range for their age. It also provides an opportunity for the doctor to identify potential concerns and address them right away. The skilled pediatricians at Pediatrics of Central Florida in Kissimmee, St. Cloud, and Orlando, FL provide physicals for school, sports, or as part of an annual well visit.

What to Expect During a Physical

Physical exams can include several components. In addition to taking physical measurements, such as height and weight, your child’s medical history will be reviewed, including any allergies, injuries, and current medications, if any. Relevant family medical history might also be discussed. This is also a good time to mention any unusual symptoms your child has recently experienced, such as dizziness, shortness of breath, or chest pain. If your child has an undiagnosed condition, such as asthma, the doctor can develop a treatment plan.

A major aspect of a physical is an examination of your child’s overall physical health and development. As mentioned, measurements of your child’s height and weight will both be taken. Blood pressure and temperature will also be checked. Other items that are typically examined include:

• Pulse and heart rate
• Ears, nose, and throat
• Vision and hearing
• Lungs and breathing
• Reflexes
• Abdomen
• Spine

Benefits of a Yearly Physical

There are many benefits to scheduling a yearly physical for your child. The experienced pediatricians who perform physicals at our office in Kissimmee, St. Cloud, and Orlando are here to help your child maintain optimal health. A physical exam gives the doctor the chance to check for the development of a potential health concern or medical condition, such as allergies, diabetes, or cancer. If you child does have a condition, then a treatment plan can be implemented right away to help your child manage symptoms, heal, and recover.

If your child needs a physical to play sports, there are additional benefits beyond simply being cleared for participation. Injury prevention strategies, such as wearing a mouthguard or protective gear, can be discussed during the physical to help keep your child safe while playing sports. Another benefit to having a physical is that the doctor can spot an undiagnosed condition, such as asthma, that could potentially interfere with your child’s ability to safely participate. Such issues can be treated so your child can stay healthy and safe while playing.

If your child has not had a physical in over a year, it might be time to schedule one. For more information about childhood physicals, call Pediatrics of Central Florida in Kissimmee at (407) 846-3455 or (407) 933-5985. We have two locations in Kissimmee, as well as offices in St. Cloud, (407) 891-0479, and Orlando, (407) 857-2816.