A sports physical is required for participation in high school and junior high athletics. UI Sports Medicine and UI Family Care North Liberty will host sports physicals at the North Liberty clinic on a walk-in basis Thursday, June 29 from 5 to 7 p.m.
Britt Marcussen, MD, sports medicine physician at University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, says sports physicals are important because it gives physicians the opportunity to see a generally healthy population in the office. "A screening exam allows us to identify health issues that might not otherwise be detected or noticed by the athletes, such as high blood pressure, a heart murmur, or a musculoskeletal issue that would put them at risk for injury. We also can ask health-related questions we may not otherwise have the opportunity to ask."
The sports physical consists of taking height and weight measurements and blood pressure and pulse readings. The athletes and parents or guardians will be asked to complete a state form screening questionnaire prior to the exam. "This allows us to identify any particular areas of concern. A general exam focusing on the heart/lung and musculoskeletal exam then takes place.
Any Junior high or high school athlete in the area planning on participating in the next year should take advantage of this opportunity, says Marcussen. The North Liberty Clinic is encouraging appointments so adequate staff is available, but walk-ins will be seen as time allows. A sport physical takes about 15 minuets unless concerns are identified. The UI North Liberty Family Care Center is located on highway 965 across from Quail Creek golf course. For more information or to make an appointment, call 319-626-5680.
There will be a $25 charge per physical and insurance claims will not be filed. The $25 fee will be donated to the local school athletic departments. |
