Physical exams

Although specifics of a physical will vary based on the reason for the physical, as well as your gender and age, most routine physicals typically check the functioning of the lungs, heart, head, neck, extremities and skin. Other areas may also be included depending on your medical history.

What a physical exam includes

For both an annual physical exam and an employment physical exam, the assessment will check for several different things. Your exam may include:

• Updated health history — to determine any recent medical problems or new medications or supplements
• Check of vital signs — may include blood pressure, heart rate and respiratory rate
• Visual review of your appearance — may include a check of the hair, nails, limbs, abdomen, neck and head
• Listening to your heart and lungs — may also take bloodwork for laboratory tests (depending on your specific needs)
• Diagnostic testing — may include exams such as electrocardiograms (EKGs) or X-rays
• Specific screenings — may be included based on age, gender, activity level or employment

Additional requirements for men

Physical exams for men may include some additional requirements, such as:

• Cholesterol test— Every five years for those over 35; or as young as 20 if there’s a family history of heart disease or diabetes
• Testicular exam— a check of each testicle for lumps, tenderness or changes in size
• Prostate cancer screening— either a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) or digital rectal exam

Additional requirements for women

Physical exams for women may include some additional requirements, such as:

• Cholesterol test— Regular checks starting at age 45; or as early as 20 if there’s a genetic history of heart disease or diabetes
• Pelvic exam— a check of the vagina, vulva and cervix for signs of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)
• Breast exam— a check for lumps or other signs of breast cancer
• Mammogram— This is not included but may be prescribed post-physical. Recommended every two years for those ages 50 to 74
• Osteoporosis screening— This is not included but may be prescribed post-physical. Bone density scans starting at age 65.

School and sport physicals are conducted to determine whether a child is healthy and physically prepared to participate in sports and/or other school activities. These regular exams can also be a good time for physicians to discuss important health issues with you and your child. In addition to sports physicals, we also offer age appropriate immunizations as well as prescriptions and treatments for common childhood health conditions.

Sport physicals are particularly important for any child with an existing health issue, such as asthma or a previous physical injury that could be aggravated or made worse by participating in a sport or activity.

School physical requirements

Many states now require annual physical exams before students can participate in any sport or physical activity offered by schools, camps, and other community youth organizations. The exact requirements will depend on the specific requirements of the state school system or the sport or activity. In general, however, sports and school physicals include these steps:< />

• A review of your child's medical background
• A physical examination
• The completion of necessary School Physical or Vaccination forms and Sports Physical forms

School Physicals might require age appropriate vaccinations or documentation, or EKG testing if suggested by the provider.

The content provided on the MD Now® website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for receiving medical care and treatment from a qualified healthcare provider. Never delay seeking advice, evaluation and treatment from a medical professional because of what you've read on this site.