Sports physicals are important as they can identify risk factors, like pre-existing illnesses and health issues that have not been diagnosed. The physical includes a review of your child’s medical history, including injuries that help identify potential risks of injury when participating in sports and physical activities. The doctor may focus on specific areas of the body, depending on which sport or activity they are choosing to participate in. A runner is more likely to have issues or injuries to their feet, ankles, and legs. A baseball player may have issues or injuries to the arms or shoulders. The doctor will check the necessary areas more closely to ensure that your child can fully participate. A sports physical will do more than make sure that your child can participate, safely. They can provide instruction on how your child can remain healthy and safe while participating. They may offer ideas for lifestyle choices that can keep your child more active and able to recover faster after training. If your child is participating in contact sports, like football, boxing, or hockey, they may recommend periodic checkups to look for potential injuries, especially concussions.