March 9, 2025
If your child is looking to play basketball for school, go to a baseball camp for a week, or join a soccer league at a club, you’ll need to secure them a sports physical. Most anywhere your child will potentially play sports will require a physical before they can play.
Find out if a chiropractor can write a physical for sports, why you need one, and other reasons to take your child to the chiropractor here.
Why Do I Need A Sports Physical?
When your child wants to partake in sports, whether it’s through school, camp, or a youth sports organization, they’re required to have a sports physical to ensure they’re fit for activity.
These organizations need to verify that your child (typically aged 6-17) has no underlying health concerns and is ready for the sport. Sports physicals, also known as pre-participation physical evaluations, are necessary because they’re all about your child being safe.
Can Chiropractors Provide A Sports Physical?
Yes, they can. Chiropractors are more than qualified to perform a sports physical:
Rigorous Training
Chiropractors have a rigorous education and training program before they can begin practicing. They develop a vast knowledge of the skeletal, muscular, and general inner workings of the anatomy to offer holistic health care.
Specific Qualifications
In order to provide a valid physical for a child, a chiropractor must:
- Complete a Doctor of Chiropractic degree
- Be licensed and certified to practice as a chiropractor in their state
- Additional training in sports medicine
This combination of qualifications prepares a chiropractor to correctly assess a child’s physical health as a potential athlete.
What Will A Chiropractor Do During My Sports Physical?
During your sports physical, your chiropractor will complete a comprehensive assessment of your range of motion, flexibility, joint function, or any other potential issues or imbalances.
You’ll then receive a list of personalized recommendations and exercises to prevent sports injuries and improve your overall performance, along with targeted treatment options to rehabilitate issues and promote healing.
Are Chiropractors Helpful For Sports Medicine?
Chiropractors are valuable assets for anyone, but they can be even more important for athletes. They offer specific solutions to your needs; there are no “one-size-fits-all” options. Each treatment is tailored to you and your goals.
Consistent visits can keep your spine aligned and your body in good health. They can also improve your range of motion and flexibility to help avoid injuries and discomfort. They can perform manual adjustments for large, musculoskeletal problems and provide soft tissue therapy like massage to support recovery after performance.
Ready For Your Sports Physical?
Whether you need to get cleared for sports or want to learn more about our services, call 727-447-464 or contact Family Life Chiropractic today! Our Clearwater chiropractor can help you stay active and injury-free year-round.
About the Author: With over three decades of experience, Dr. Jere Jarrett is a highly educated and experienced chiropractor who serves Clearwater, FL, and the surrounding areas. He takes a “whole-body” approach to chiropractic care. Instead of treating symptoms, Dr. Jarrett looks for the underlying cause of pain and discomfort. Call 727-447-4647 to schedule an appointment!