Sports Physicals

I'm not opposed to sports physicals.  I think they are absolutely necessary.  Each year, every athlete from the cheerleader to the bone-crusher line backer must have a physical to participate in sports.  That is good.  The problem is the content of the physical exam itself.  Most schools in our community provide an examination form which the athlete takes to the doctor.  The form lists all the body parts and systems to be examined.  Consider the typical list; ears, eyes, nose, throat, heart, lungs, kidneys, extremities, spine, skin, genitals (optional), and the like.  These are all necessary but do not really address the most common risks for injury that athletes face.  Take flat feet, for example.  Flat arches predispose the athlete to sprains of the ankes, knees, hips and spine. These are the most common of injuries, yet not emphasized on the typical exam form.  If your athlete has flat feet, have a chiropractor or podiatrist take a look at him.  He may benefit from wearing foot orthotics which will help prevent injury. 

Another condition I think is overlooked is the potential for hernia in male athletes.  Boys will be boys and sooner or later, every boy in training will lift weights to the maximun of his ability.  The opportunity for a hernia to develop is greatest during heavy lifting.   I think most doctors check for hernia potential during physical exams, but you should be sure he does.

A third thing frequently overlooked is the spine.  Athletes commonly injure their backs.  They are expecially at risk if they are in weight training.  Yet, a comprehensive posture and spinal exam is not emphasized on the physical exam forms. If your athlete has ever had significant back symptoms or back injury, have his spine closely scrutinized by the examining doctor, or, take him to the chiropractor for a check-up.