What is a physical?
A physical is a state mandated examination that all student athletes must have to engage in sporting activities. The purpose of a physical is to make sure that each kid is physically safe to participate in their sporting event.
Who needs a physical?
The University Interscholastic League (UIL) states that any high school or middle school students that are playing any sport for their school need a physical before they are allowed to practice or compete in school events.
What happens during a physical?
During a physical, the individual will have various parts of their body checked to make sure there is not anything abnormal with their body that would make playing sports unsafe. Some of the areas that are checked are their vision, lungs, heart, neck, knees, arms, hands, legs, and feet, and the genitalia for males. There are 3 results that can happen from a physical
- Cleared: This happens when everything is normal and means that the student can start participating in sports right away.
- Cleared after completing evaluations / rehabilitations for: This happens when there is something abnormal that can be healed or fixed with time and rehabilitation. Once the area has completed the rehab the student can begin participating in sports
- Not cleared for: This happens when the physician does not think, due to medical reasons, the child should be participating in sports because it would not be safe for their bodies.
The physical form that needs to be filled out can be located here.
Vaccines and Sickness
What vaccines are required by the state of Texas for school children?
Depending on what grade the child is going into will determine the vaccines that the child must have. The specific list can be found on the Texas Department of State Health Services website.
It is important that the child has the vaccines prior to the start of the school year.
Ways to help prevent your child from getting sick
Developing good hygiene and wellness practices that promote being healthy are vital to your child not getting sick as often this school year. Small things like washing your hands and having a healthy diet are great ways to help your child’s immune system stay strong this school year.
If you still need a physical, vaccinations for your child, or need a physician to help your child with any sicknesses this school year, feel free to call Kudo Care at 469-706-0710 or visit our website to schedule an appointment.