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Sports Physicals

A physical exam can be a useful diagnostic and preventive care method to evaluate your overall health and detect issues before they become harder to treat. At Palm Valley Family Medicine Clinics, The doctor Chirco, FNP, a board-certified family nurse practitioner, offers comprehensive, customized physical exams. The doctor spends ample time assessing your medical concerns and works meticulously to find the best ways to enhance your wellness. If you’re due for your annual physical or have concerns about your health, call Palm Valley Family Medicine Clinics or make your appointment using the online booking tool.

What is a physical exam?

The doctor uses physical exams to evaluate a specific medical concern or serve as part of a general preventive care checkup. Physical exams are sometimes also referred to as wellness visits and are centered around improving and assessing your health.

Physical exams are recommended annually and involve a review of your medical history and family history. The doctor also has an in-depth discussion with you about your health and allows ample time for you to answer any questions you might have.

Depending on your current state of health and age, The doctor might recommend additional blood work and testing.

Why would I need a physical exam?

The doctor might recommend a physical exam to:

  • Check for possible diseases
  • Update any necessary vaccinations
  • Make sure you’re maintaining a healthy lifestyle with balanced nutrition and regular exercise
  • Identify concerns that might turn into medical complications

She might also conduct a physical exam before surgery or before treatment for a medical condition.

How can I prepare for a physical exam?

Preparing for your physical exam allows you to make the most out of your time with your provider. You should gather paperwork or information to demonstrate:

  • A list of your current medications
  • A list of symptoms or pain you’re experiencing
  • Any relevant recent test results
  • Your medical and surgical history
  • Contact information and names of other doctors you’ve visited recently

You might want to dress in comfortable clothing and avoid excess jewelry or makeup that may interfere with the exam.

What does a physical exam involve?

One of the most important parts of your physical exam or wellness visit is your in-depth discussion with The doctor. She also checks your pulse, weight, height, blood pressure, and other vitals.

The doctor will examine your body, looking for signs of tenderness or irregularities. During this evaluation, she will use a percussion technique, in which she gently taps on your body like a drum to assess organs.

She also uses an instrument called a stethoscope to listen to your lungs, intestines, and your heart’s rhythm.

At the end of your exam, The doctor might also order bloodwork to evaluate your blood sugar levels, cholesterol, and other vital factors that can help paint a clear and accurate picture of your overall health.

To schedule a physical evaluation at B&B Family Medicine Clinics, call the office or book an appointment online today.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in a physical assessment? It measures important vital signs -- temperature, blood pressure, and heart rate -- and evaluates your body using observation, palpitation, percussion, and auscultation. Observation includes using instruments to look into your eyes, ears, nose, and throat.
Measure your blood pressure and pulse. Test your vision. Check your heart, lungs, belly, ears, nose, and throat. Check your joints, strength, flexibility, and posture.
Sometimes doctors will ask for a urine sample as part of a routine physical exam, just to make sure there aren't any warning signs of future illness. Specific symptoms may also prompt the test, including: Back or abdominal pain.