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Has your teen had his or her annual physical yet? Did you know that the Academy of Pediatrics recommends that your child see his or her provider every year for a complete physical?

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that adolescents have a complete physical every year because adolescence is a time of great change both physically and emotionally. The annual physical is an opportunity to have your student’s health assessed and to start intervention for any problems that may be identified. The annual physical is also an opportunity for the healthcare provider to educate your child on healthy lifestyle choices.

Sports physical examinations focus on areas of importance for sports participation such as weight, heart and lung examinations, musculature and skeletal checks. An annual or “complete” physical assesses a student’s overall well-being and will include a complete medical history, physical exam and discussion of risky behaviors, school performance and depression. Sports physical forms can be completed during the annual physical.

Here is what you and your teen can expect:

A complete health history/screening will be obtained. This may include questions related to eating disorders, tobacco use, safety issues, drug or alcohol use, sexual activity, depression and school performance.

A complete head to toe physical examination.

Immunizations will be updated.

Blood tests may be ordered. Screening for high cholesterol or diabetes might be done depending upon family history and your teen’s body type.

Health education and guidance will be offered. This might relate to lifestyle, diet, activity or injury prevention. Health risks in this age group are more social in origin than medical, and if recognized, interventions can be suggested that may reverse risky behavior.

When a child reaches his or her teens, it is common for the provider to meet with the child individually to obtain a health history and do the physical exam. A parent might be invited to join the discussion of the results of the exam.

Call today to schedule your child’s annual exam and be sure to make a note on your calendar to get one every year.

C.J. Menagh, MD, is a pediatrician at Franciscan Skemp’s Onalaska clinic.

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