Evaluate And Diagnosis Of Symptoms

Our trained professional staff will do the initial evaluation if you think your child is having problems with focusing and attention.  We also continue to treat your child after the initial diagnosis has been made.  

The ultimate goal in the treatment of ADHD/ADD is to make your child as successful as possible in all aspects of his/her life.

ADHD FAQs

What is ADHD?

Children with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder or ADHD have differences in their brains than those who don’t have ADHD. Certain areas of their brain may mature more slowly. Additionally, children with ADHD have imbalances in neural networks and neurotransmitters, the chemicals that nerves use to communicate.

Knowing that ADHD has a neurological basis is important because it helps parents understand that their child isn’t disobedient or oppositional on purpose. Instead, children with ADHD need help to learn to control their behavior.

The brain differences are also important because they occur in specific areas responsible for skills such as self-regulation, organization, working memory, problem-solving, reasoning, and time perception. The brain areas affected determine your child’s ADHD symptoms.

What symptoms develop due to ADHD?

ADHD symptoms fall into three categories: inattentiveness, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Some children may only struggle with inattention, while others have trouble with two or three categories.

Each child has a different range and severity of symptoms. However, their symptoms are severe enough to affect their performance at school, at home, and when socializing.

When children struggle with inattention, they:
 

• Can’t pay attention at school or while playing
• Have difficulty organizing tasks
• Avoid tasks requiring mental effort
• Lose important items
• Forget to do homework and chores

When children struggle with hyperactivity and impulsivity, they:
 

• Fidget, squirm, or get out of their seat during class
• Run or climb when it’s inappropriate
• Talk excessively and interrupt conversations
• Have a hard time waiting for their turn
• Act or speak without thinking

Children and adolescents with ADHD also have problems with working memory. Working memory allows them to hold several pieces of information in their head long enough to use them to plan, do calculations, or to coordinate one activity with another.

How do you diagnose and treat ADHD?

To evaluate and diagnose ADHD, our professional team use tools such as a checklist of symptoms, talking with parents and children about their challenges, and questionnaires completed by parents and teachers. Your child also has a thorough physical exam to be sure another problem is not the cause of their symptoms.

Once your child has an ADHD diagnosis, their pediatrician at our office prescribes treatment and schedules regular follow-up appointments to monitor their progress.

Your pediatrician may recommend conventional and/or holistic treatments, depending on each child’s needs. For example, your child may improve with a combination of medication, dietary changes, and behavioral support.

If you or your child’s teacher are concerned about your child’s inattentive, hyperactive, or impulsive behaviors, call our office to schedule an ADHD evaluation.

Asthma & Allergy Management

Our practice provides a comprehensive asthma and allergy management program for our patients. Our pediatricians are trained in the diagnosis and management of childhood asthma and allergies. Diagnosis is usually made during a sick visit when a child is wheezing or exhibiting symptoms of allergies. Occasionally, we may diagnose your child with asthma or allergies during a preventive care visit based on patient or parent concerns or our exam findings.

Pulmonary Function Testing

Pulmonary function testing is done at least annually and may be done when monitoring medication changes. The test results are interpreted by our providers to help guide your child’s treatment. This is a non-invasive test performed in all patients age 5 or older with asthma to assess lung function and response to medication and to assess overall asthma control. 

Asthma Education

We teach about environmental controls and avoidance of triggers. We also watch your child using his/her inhaler to confirm it is being used correctly. Information about caring for the medication devices that your child uses is provided and reviewed at every visit. We will provide an Asthma Action Plan for your child for school and will provide a Food Allergy Action Plan if needed.

Maintence Visits

Children with asthma should be seen in our office every 3-12 months depending on their severity of illness and their asthma control. Regular visits are required in order for us to evaluate your child prior to medication refills.

Helpful Resources:

• Asthma Overview 
• How to Use a Diskus Inhaler - video and instructions
• How to Use a Diskus Inhaler - PDF Download
• How to Use a Flexhaler - video and instructions
• How to Use a Flexhaler - PDF Download
• How to Use a Metered Dose Inhaler (MDI) - video and instructions
• How to Use a Metered Dose Inhaler (MDI) - PDF Download
• How to Use a Twisthaler - video and instructions
• How to Use a Twisthaler - PDF Download

At Milk and Honey Pediatrics, the implementation of autism screening plays a crucial role in early detection and intervention for children with neurodevelopmental challenges. By incorporating reliable and evidence-based screening tools, such as the Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers (M-CHAT) at 18 months and 24 months of age, pediatricians can effectively assess a child's social communication skills, behavior, and overall developmental milestones. The screening process is designed to be efficient and non-invasive, allowing pediatricians to identify potential red flags or atypical behaviors that may warrant further evaluation. Early identification of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) enables timely access to specialized services and tailored support, improving the child's developmental outcomes and providing much-needed guidance and reassurance for their families. Moreover, the incorporation of autism screening within the pediatric office setting underscores the commitment to fostering comprehensive and inclusive care for all children, regardless of their developmental diversities.

DOES YOUR CHILD NEED A BEHAVIORAL EVALUATION?

WHAT WE DO

In cooperation with community based mental health providers, we evaluate and treat children for behavior concerns and school problems including:

• Inattention and lack of focus
• Anxiety
• Depression

If you have concerns about your child's behavioral development, please call our office  and ask to speak to our Behavioral Health Coordinator. We will discuss your concerns and gather information that will be used to determine how we can best help your child. If a Behavioral Evaluation with one of our providers is needed, we will schedule this visit for you and provide you with assessment tools that you can complete prior to the your visit.

Assessment tools to complete for children ages 5-12:

• Vanderbilt Assessment - Parent Initial
• Vanderbilt Assessment - Teacher Initial
• Screen for Child Anxiety Related Disorders (SCARED) - Parent
• Screen for Child Anxiety Related Disorders (SCARED) – Child
• Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale for Children (CES-DC)

Assessment tools to be complete for children ages 13-18:

• Vanderbilt Assessment - Parent Initial
• Vanderbilt Assessment - Teacher Initial
• Screen for Child Anxiety Related Disorders (SCARED) - Parent
• Screen for Child Anxiety Related Disorders (SCARED) – Child
• Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale for Children (CES-DC)
• Patient Health Questionnaire 9 (PHQ9)
• CRAFFT screening tool

Assessment tools used on a case by case basis include: 

• Child Obsessional Compulsive Inventory- Parent and Child (CHOCI)

Completing the Assessments

• You will be directed to complete the Parent Assessments through the patient portal.
• Your child will be given a portal account so that they can complete their assessments through their private patient portal. 
• You will be directed to invite your child’s teacher to complete their assessment through the patient portal as well.

Important! All Assessments must be completed before the day of your child’s appointment.

What to Expect at a Behavioral Evaluation

At least one week prior to your appointment, complete assigned assessments noted above. On the day of your child's behavioral evaluation, please arrive 10 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment time. Ideally, your child should eat a nutritious meal prior to the appointment and be well-rested.

You and your child will meet with a nurse. Your nurse will spend approximately 20 minutes with you obtaining pertinent medical and behavioral history. Both you and your child will then meet with the doctor who will perform a thorough assessment and develop a behavioral health management plan for your child. Our providers may recommend additional counseling to best serve your child.  

If the doctor prescribes medication, he/she will want to follow up with your child within 28 days to assess your child's progress and to determine if the medication can be refilled. A patient coordinator will schedule this appointment with you before you leave the office.

Ongoing Medication Management

After your child's initial evaluation, if medication is started, your child must be seen within 28 days in order to continue the medication. If your child is doing well with his/her medication, subsequent appointments will be scheduled every 3 months. If a  medication or dosage change is needed, your child must be seen within 1 month to assess your child's progress and to determine if the medication can be refilled.

We are here to support you!

If your child has a disability or a chronic illness, your journey may feel like the road less traveled. You probably have interactions with many different professionals and specialists. You need information, assistance, understanding, and support.

We're here to help.

If your child has significant medical needs, we will partner with you to help you manage your child's condition. We look forward to getting to know you and your child, and will be your dedicated point of contact through this journey.

We offer Comprehensive Diagnostic Testing in house at Milk and Honey Pediatrics:

• Rapid Strep Test: This test is used to diagnose streptococcal pharyngitis, commonly known as strep throat. It detects the presence of Group A Streptococcus bacteria in a throat swab sample. Strep throat is a common bacterial infection in children and can cause sore throat, fever, and swollen lymph nodes.
• RSV Test: The Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) test is used to detect the presence of RSV in respiratory secretions. RSV is a common virus that causes respiratory infections, especially in young children. Symptoms can range from mild cold-like symptoms to more severe lower respiratory tract infections, such as bronchiolitis and pneumonia.
• Influenza A and B Test: This test identifies the presence of Influenza A and B viruses, which are responsible for seasonal flu outbreaks. Influenza can cause fever, cough, body aches, and other respiratory symptoms. It is particularly important to diagnose and manage influenza in young children, as they can be more vulnerable to severe complications.
• Monospot Test: The Monospot test is used to diagnose infectious mononucleosis, commonly known as mono. This viral infection is caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). Mono is characterized by symptoms like fever, sore throat, swollen lymph nodes, and fatigue.
• Hemoglobin Test: The hemoglobin test measures the level of hemoglobin in the blood. Hemoglobin is a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body. This test is commonly used to check for anemia or to monitor a patient's response to treatment for various conditions.
• Cholesterol Test: A cholesterol test measures the levels of different types of cholesterol in the blood. The main types of cholesterol tested are low-density lipoprotein (LDL), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), and triglycerides. High levels of LDL cholesterol and triglycerides, along with low levels of HDL cholesterol, can be risk factors for cardiovascular diseases.
• Lead Test: A lead test measures the amount of lead in the blood. Lead exposure can be harmful, especially for children, as it can affect their physical and mental development. Screening for lead levels is essential, especially for children living in older homes or in areas with potential lead exposure.
• Urinalysis: Urinalysis involves testing the urine for various substances such as glucose, protein, blood cells, and other components. It is a routine test used to evaluate kidney function, detect urinary tract infections, and monitor certain health conditions.
• Glucose Testing: Glucose testing measures the concentration of glucose (sugar) in the blood. It is commonly used to diagnose and monitor diabetes mellitus, a condition in which blood glucose levels are elevated.

Having these tests available in our pediatrics office allows for timely and accurate diagnoses of common infections, which is crucial for appropriate treatment and patient care. It also helps in preventing the spread of contagious diseases, particularly in a pediatric setting where young children are more susceptible to infections. We always ensure to follow proper testing protocols and guidelines to maintain the quality and accuracy of the results.

Suitable Cases: Dermabond is a brand of skin adhesive that is commonly used in medical settings to close small wounds and lacerations. Dermabond is best suited for small, clean, and straight lacerations that are not too deep. It is not recommended for wounds involving joints or areas of high tension. Proper patient selection is crucial to achieve successful outcomes.

Offering developmental screening at Milk and Honey Pediatrics is an essential service that can significantly benefit young patients and their families. Early detection of developmental delays or potential issues can lead to timely interventions and support, which can greatly improve a child's long-term outcomes. Here are some important points to consider:

1. Screening Tools: We utilize reliable screening tools that are appropriate for the age group we are assessing. There are various standardized developmental screening tools available, such as Ages and Stages Questionnaires (ASQ), Bright Futures Questionnaires, Denver Developmental Screening Test (DDST), or Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers (M-CHAT).

2. Age-Appropriate Screening: Different age groups may require different developmental assessments. We tailor the screening process to the specific age of the child, as developmental milestones vary across infancy, toddlerhood, and early childhood.

3. Regular Checkups: We include developmental screening as a routine part of well- child visits. Regular checkups offer opportunities to monitor a child's growth and development over time and catch any potential delays early on.

4. Parental Involvement: We encourage parental involvement and educate parents about the importance of developmental screening. We explain the purpose of the screening and how it can help identify any concerns or areas that may need additional attention or support.

5. Referrals and Follow-Up: If a child's screening raises any concerns, we ensure that appropriate referrals are made to specialists or early intervention programs for further evaluation and support. We follow up with families to track progress and ensure they receive the necessary assistance.

6. Sensitivity and Communication: It's crucial to conduct developmental screening in a sensitive and supportive manner, recognizing that every child develops at their own pace. We ensure clear communication with parents about the results, providing guidance and resources to address any identified concerns.

7. Continuing Education: Milk and Honey Pediatrics stays up-to-date with the latest research and guidelines related to developmental screening. Our pediatricians regularly participate in training and workshops to enhance our skills and knowledge in this area.

By offering developmental screening at Milk and Honey Pediatrics, we are contributing to the overall well-being and healthy development of the children you serve.

Ear wax impaction is a common issue that can cause discomfort and hearing difficulties for children. Ear irrigation can effectively remove impacted earwax and alleviate the associated symptoms. Here are some additional guidelines and tips to ensure a safe and effective ear irrigation procedure:

1. Patient Selection: We assess the child's medical history, age, and the severity of the earwax impaction to determine whether ear irrigation is appropriate. In some cases, alternative approaches such as ear drops (Debrox to soften the wax may be needed before irrigation.

2. Parent/Guardian Education: We educate the child's parent or guardian about the procedure, its benefits, potential risks, and the importance of following post- irrigation care instructions.

3. Pre-Irrigation Examination: We perform a thorough examination of the child's ear to confirm the presence of ear wax impaction and to rule out any contraindications (e.g., ear infections, perforated eardrums, ear canal abnormalities).

4. Earwax Softening: If the earwax is hard or impacted, we advise to use ear drops to soften it before proceeding with irrigation. This can make the procedure more comfortable and effective.

We are happy to offer this service to our patients. 

We use Hastings Corporations, Coren. We recommend ear piercing occur after 3 months old. Waiting until children are 3 months old ensures that they have had their first set of vaccines and allows the ear to grow big enough to allow for accurate placing of the earing. We want to make sure that this elective procedure carries as little risk to your child as possible.  For FAQ, please click here.

We do ear piercing by appointment only and not as an "add-on" to another sick or well visit. This allows enough time to perform the procedure, explain and answer questions about the aftercare, and allows the numbing cream to take effect.

We charge $100 and up, the options would be: Gold plated, 24k Gold, and Diamond Cut. This price includes the piercing studs and a permanent pair of hypoallergenic earrings.

Frenotomy, also known as frenectomy, is a medical procedure in which a band of tissue called a frenulum is cut or released. Frenulums are small folds of tissue that connect certain body parts, and they can be found in various areas of the body, including the mouth and genital region.

In the context of the mouth, the frenulum is the band of tissue that connects the tongue to the floor of the mouth (lingual frenulum) or connects the upper lip to the gum tissue above the upper front teeth (labial frenulum). In some cases, the frenulum can be abnormally tight or short, which can cause restrictions in movement and lead to certain issues.

Frenotomy is most performed on infants who have a condition known as "tongue-tie" or "ankyloglossia." Tongue-tie occurs when the lingual frenulum is too tight, limiting the tongue's movement and affecting breastfeeding or, later on, speech development. A frenotomy involves making a small incision in the frenulum to release the tension and allow for better movement of the tongue.

Frenotomy is usually a quick and straightforward procedure, and typically carries minimal risks. In infants, it can significantly improve breastfeeding and ensure proper development of oral functions. However, like any medical procedure, it should be performed by a qualified healthcare professional who has experience in conducting frenotomies. If you suspect that you or your child may benefit from a frenotomy, it's essential to consult with a healthcare provider for a proper evaluation and recommendation. At Milk and Honey Pediatrics we offer frenectomies for your infant with tongue-tie.

Breastfeeding Support

Breastfeeding provides essential nutrition for infants birth to one year and older. As with learning anything new, most breastfeeding mothers and babies (and dads too!) need some instruction and support during this learning period.

That's where we come in!

We have a high number of breastfeeding families. We will do our best to help you meet your breastfeeding goals. Any breastmilk you feed your infant is a gift of health for your child that lasts their lifetime.

We respect each family's feeding decisions. We do encourage moms to breastfeed exclusively or give only  breastmilk for the first four months then continue to breastfeed and give solid foods until your baby is a year old.

We love babies and enjoy helping families learn how to breastfeed! We will help you as little or as much as you need. We provide in-office feeding evaluations for hands-on help as well as phone support for any questions you may have along your breastfeeding journey.

Some areas we can provide guidance include:

• Positioning your baby at the breast
• Latching
• Caring for your breasts and nipples
• Assessing milk transfer
• Assuring adequate nutrition
• Assembling and using a breast pump, including sizing for the right size flange
• Storing milk
• Returning to work/school while breastfeeding
• Traveling and breastfeeding
• Training a breastfeeding baby to a bottle
• Teething while breastfeeding
• Breastfeeding premature babies
• Managing slow weight gain babies
• Breastfeeding twins
• Breastfeeding babies with special medical needs such as cleft palate, Down Syndrome, and heart conditions
• Managing medications, medical tests or surgery while breastfeeding

Please call our office to schedule an appointment.

If you believe your child has a psychiatric emergency, call 911, or go to the nearest emergency room.

Suicide and Crisis Lifeline

Help is available 24/7 - call 988

WHAT WE DO

In cooperation with community based mental health providers, we evaluate and treat children for behavior concerns and school problems including:

• Inattention and lack of focus
• Anxiety
• Depression

Does Your Child Need a Mental Health Evaluation?

If you have concerns about your child's behavioral & mental development, please call our office and a health coordinator will discuss your concerns and gather information that will be used to determine how we can best help your child. If a Behavioral Evaluation with one of our providers is needed, the health coordinator will schedule this visit for you and provide you with assessment tools that you will need to complete prior to your child's visit.

ADD/ADHD 

Assessment tools for Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) that may be assigned to you include:​

• Vanderbilt Assessment - Parent Initial
• Vanderbilt Assessment - Teacher Initial

If assigned, please:

• You will receive the forms via your child's patient portal
• Teacher Assessments will be sent via email to complete. Please obtain your child's teacher's email address and let him or her know to expect an email our practice regarding your child's assessment

Important! Both assessments must be returned to our office one week prior to your child's appointment.

Anxiety

Assessment tools for anxiety that may be assigned to you include:

• Screen for Child Anxiety Related Disorders (SCARED) - Parent

• Screen for Child Anxiety Related Disorders (SCARED) - Child

If assigned, please:

• You will receive the forms via your child's patient portal

• Both you and your child will need to complete the appropriate online SCARED assessment.

Important! Both assessments must be completed one week prior to your child's appointment.

Depression

Assessment tools for depression that may be assigned to you include:

• Patient Health Questionnaire 9 (PHQ9)

• Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale for Children (CES-DC)

If assigned, please:

• You will receive the forms via your child's patient portal

• Your child will need to complete both assessments

Important! Both assessments must be returned to our office one week prior to your child's appointment.​

OCD

Assessment tools for obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD)  that may be assigned to you include:

• Children's Yale-Brown Obsessive Compulsive Scale (CY-BOCS)

Important! This assessments must be returned to our office one week prior to your child's appointment.

What to Expect at a Mental Health Evaluation 

At least one week prior to your appointment, complete assigned assessments noted above. On the day of your child's evaluation, please arrive 10 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment time. Ideally, your child should eat a nutritious meal prior to the appointment and be well-rested.

Both you and your child will then meet with the provider who will perform a thorough assessment and develop a behavioral health management plan for your child. Our providers may recommend additional counseling to best serve your child.

If the provider prescribes medication, he/she will want to follow up with your child within 21 days to assess your child's progress and to determine if the medication can be refilled. A patient coordinator will schedule this appointment with you before you leave the office.

Ongoing Medication Management 

After your child's initial evaluation, if medication is started, your child must be seen within 21 days in order to continue the medication. If your child is doing well with his/her medication, subsequent appointments will be scheduled every 3 months. If a  medication or dosage change is needed, your child must be seen within 1 month to assess your child's progress and to determine if the medication can be refilled.

At Milk and Honey Pediatrics we offer albuterol nebulized treatments which can be crucial for managing respiratory conditions in children. However, when dealing with pediatric patients, there are some additional considerations to ensure their safety and well-being:

1. Pediatric Dosing: Pediatric patients require different dosages of medication compared to adults. We ensure that we have the appropriate dosing guidelines for albuterol nebulized treatments based on the child's age, weight, and medical condition.

2. Child-Friendly Atmosphere: We create a child-friendly and welcoming environment in our office to help ease anxiety and fear in young patients.

3. Parental Involvement: We encourage parental involvement during the nebulized treatment, especially for younger children. We explain the procedure to both the child and their parent or guardian, and ensure they are comfortable with the process.

4. Use of Masks: For very young children who may not tolerate a face mask during the nebulization process, we may use a spacer device with a mouthpiece to deliver the medication effectively.

5. Pediatric-Friendly Nebulizers: We use pediatric-specific nebulizer masks or mouthpieces that fit comfortably and securely for children of different age groups. This helps optimize medication delivery and minimize any discomfort.

6. Patient Education for Parents: We provide detailed instructions to parents or guardians on how to administer nebulized treatments at home if necessary. We ensure they understand the correct dosage, frequency, and any potential side effects to watch for.

7. Monitoring and Follow-up: We regularly monitor the child's response to the treatment and make any necessary adjustments to the treatment plan based on their progress. We then follow up with parents to assess the effectiveness of the treatment and address any concerns.

8. Pediatric Emergencies: We have a plan in place to handle any potential emergencies or adverse reactions that may occur during or after nebulized treatments in children. We ensure that all staff members are trained in pediatric emergency protocols.

Newborn Care Begins From The Moment Your Baby Arrives

Here at Milk and Honey Pediatrics, we like to begin your newborn care in the hospital and continue as an integral part of the comprehensive care provided by our professional team!

Our pediatricians understand the challenges of taking care of a newborn. They also provide the same gentle care they’d use for treating their family. If you’re pregnant, looking for a pediatrician, and you’d like to meet the team, or you need to schedule a newborn visit, call our office.

Newborn Care FAQs

When does my newborn have their first checkup?

Your new baby has their first checkup within two weeks after leaving the hospital. During this newborn care visit, their pediatrician performs the required newborn screening tests in the office, so you don’t need to make a separate trip to the hospital for your baby’s testing.

Your newborn’s checkup is a comprehensive exam to be sure they’re growing and developing normally. During the checkup, the pediatrician:
 

• Checks your baby’s weight, length, and head circumference
• Evaluates your baby’s feeding, bowel, and sleeping habits
• Does a physical examination, including an eye exam
• Performs a developmental evaluation

These visits also give parents time to ask questions about their baby, whether they’re not sure about how to bathe the baby, they have trouble with feeding, they’re worried about the baby’s sleep schedule, or any other concerns.

What screenings does newborn care include?

Some states routinely screens for genetic and rare medical conditions, including 32 core and 24 secondary conditions. The goal is to identify and treat diseases early enough to prevent serious complications such as growth problems, developmental delays, intellectual disabilities, blindness, deafness, and seizures.

Within the first 24 hours after delivery, your newborn has a hearing screening, and blood is drawn from their heel to run the routine screening tests. Some states require the same procedure to take place at your baby’s two-week checkup.

What are well-child visits?

Well-child visits are ongoing checkups for children that follow a specific schedule. After the two-week newborn care visit, your newborn should see the pediatrician at one and two months.

During each visit, their pediatrician will evaluate their growth, developmental milestones, and behaviors. If your baby needs routine blood draws, they can also be done in the office.

Just like the two-week newborn care visit, every well-child checkup is an opportunity to talk with the pediatrician about baby care and your baby’s health and safety.

Your pediatrician also gives immunizations at the two-month visit to protect your baby from:
 

• Polio
• Hepatitis B
• Rotavirus
• Diphtheria
• Haemophilus Influenzae
• Pneumococcus

Small doses of the same immunizations are repeated several times over the first 18 months to be sure your infant is fully immunized against contagious diseases.

We have a nutritionist on board to help those patients with childhood obesity among other dietary issues.

We provide care for special needs patients including but not limited to Down’s syndrome, Cerebral Palsy and other genetic disorders.

Sports physicals are different from the typical well-child checkup because their goal is to be sure your child can safely enjoy sports without risking harm to their body.

 

• Ensure your child is prepared for vigorous physical activity
• Gather information on your child’s health and development
• Watch for potential warning signs of serious illness
• Meet the requirements of your child’s school, camp, or sports team
• Identify possible risk factors with a certain sport
• Receive advice on avoiding injuries

Regular physicals are an important part of preventative pediatric care. Getting your child an sports physical gives the doctor the opportunity to examine your child, evaluate their health and fitness, and determine whether or not they are prepared for sports or school activities.

Annual physicals however, even when not required by a certain organization, should be a part of your child’s ongoing healthcare because they also provide an important opportunity to discuss your child’s development and any concerns you may have.

Sports Physicals FAQs

What is a sports physical?

Every child or teen in Texas who wants to play in a sport or engage in other school activities like cheerleading must have a sports physical or a preparticipation physical examination. They also need a sports physical to clear them to return to their activities if they suffer an injury or become ill during the season.

The purpose of a sports physical is to be sure your child can safely participate in sports. Suddenly starting high-intensity workouts and engaging in competitive sports can quickly aggravate a pre-existing problem or lead to a preventable injury when an exam discovers potential problems.

Although a sports physical may find a problem that prevents your child from participating, in most cases, the examination results guide decisions. The exam reveals problems that Eastside Children’s Clinic can treat before your child starts a sport, and shows if your child needs extra training to get in shape to safely participate.

Why is a child’s medical history important?

Children and parents use a medical history form to provide information about:
 

• Chronic illnesses such as asthma, diabetes, or epilepsy
• Hospitalizations or surgeries
• Past injuries such as concussions, sprains, or fractures
• Problems with dizziness, chest pain, or breathing during exercise
• Medications and supplements
• Allergies
• Family history of serious illnesses

A complete medical history helps your doctor determine if your child has a condition that sports activities might aggravate.

How is a sports physical exam different from an annual checkup?

The physical exam for sports participation has a different focus than a wellness exam. During a sports physical, a pediatrician at Eastside Children’s Clinic evaluates your child’s musculoskeletal health, assessing bones, muscles, and joints for flexibility, strength, and signs of overuse injuries or stress.

Their doctor carefully examines concerns that could reappear during sports activities, such as previous fractures, sprains, concussions, skin infections, a past history of pain or dizziness, and chronic health conditions.

An existing condition doesn’t always prevent a child from playing sports, but it may mean that they need help to accommodate their activity.

If your child has asthma, for example, they may need a different inhaler or need to learn to use their inhaler shortly before they start their warmups to prevent an exercise-induced asthma attack.

If your child needs any type of physical, call our office or schedule an appointment online.

We offer suture and staples removal at Milk and Honey Pediatrics.