PHYSICAL EXAMINATIONS
Here in our offices we offer physical examinations for our patients who are involved in sports or any physical activity that requires approval from a doctor in order to go about continuing the activity.
While typically the Pre-Participation Physical Exam is targeted for the adolescents, we are aware that families look to put their children into local little leagues and plant the seeds of physical fitness and we are supportive of it! Because of this we offer the physical examination to children and all ages.
We are aware that for some age groups there is a natural sense of uncomfortableness that could be felt. We want to ensure you that we that we are very caring and compassionate with our patients. We always aim to exceed the highest expectations of professionalism.
What is the purpose of the physical examination? Many patients that have walked through it from a visual perspective will see it as a simple checkup. However there is a much larger picture that we through many years of experience try to hone in on.
As with all examinations and procedures that are recommended and at times required, the root for their existence is to prevent any unfortunate events that could result in harm to your bodies. There are many health benefits to the physical examination such as the following: to prevent the risk of sudden death of athletes, to find any conditions that may need more attention before participating in further physical activity, orthopedic conditions and finally to identify substance abuse, STD’s, pregnancy and depression.
These health benefits would certainly vary from age group to age group however one thing will always remain consistent; physical examinations are designed for your overall safety and to identify any undetectable physical conditions that would come into conflict with that goal.
Risk can occur at any age and it would be against our will and desires to let that slide. We encourage all of our clients to step forward and to take the necessary measures to ensure their safety throughout all stages of their lives and we would be honored to walk the road with you!
What to bring to a sports physical in Florida
Florida student athletes are required to have a preparticipation physical evaluation on the state’s EL2 form, under Florida Statute 1006.20 and FHSAA Bylaw 9.7. A completed EL2 is valid for 365 calendar days from the date of the exam, and it is non-transferable — if your child changes schools while it is still valid, the school will usually ask for page 1 again.
Please bring to the appointment:
- The EL2 form, with the medical history section already filled in and signed by a parent or guardian
- Your child’s immunisation record
- A list of any current medications, including inhalers and supplements
- Glasses, contacts or hearing aids if your child uses them
- Your insurance card and photo ID
Completing the history section before you arrive makes a real difference — it is the longest part of the form and the part only a parent can answer.
When should we book it?
Because the EL2 lasts 365 days, the safest time is late spring or early summer, before autumn tryouts. Some Orange County schools add their own cut-off dates and some require the form to be uploaded online rather than handed in on paper, so it is worth checking with your child’s athletics office before the appointment.
What happens during the exam
A preparticipation physical is focused on whether it is safe for your child to train and compete. It covers height, weight and blood pressure, vision, heart and lungs, abdomen, joints and flexibility, and a review of past injuries — particularly concussions. The provider also reviews the medical history for warning signs such as chest pain or fainting during exercise, and for any family history of sudden cardiac death. Florida’s form advises that some students should have a further cardiovascular assessment, which may include an ECG or echocardiogram.
Is a sports physical the same as a well-child visit?
No, and this is the most common misunderstanding. A sports physical clears your child to play. A well-child visit is the comprehensive annual check covering growth and development, immunisations, vision and hearing, nutrition, mental health and school progress. Most insurance plans cover one well-child visit per year at no cost to you. A sports physical does not replace it — though we can often complete the EL2 during a well-child visit, which saves you a second trip.
Booking a school or sports physical in MetroWest
Primary Care Pediatrics is at 1507 S Hiawassee Rd, Suite 105, Orlando, FL 32835, open Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM. We see children and teenagers of all ages, including younger children joining local little leagues. Call (407) 445-9224 to book.
