Understanding the Purpose of Pediatric Physicals: Beyond Routine Check-Ups

Contact Mid Kansas Pediatric Associates to schedule your child’s physicals in Wichita and Derby, KS.

Why Does Your Child Need a Pediatric Physical?

 Before we dive into the importance of a pediatric physical, we should first address a question likely bouncing around in your head. How does a pediatric physical differ from a wellness check-up?

To understand the difference between those two pediatric appointments, you must remember that a physical is a part of a wellness exam. Wellness check-ups account for every aspect of your child’s current condition, including their mental and emotional health. Physicals are only focused on your child’s physical well-being and their development.

During the physical, the pediatrician will look at your child’s height and weight to check if they are in line with their age. They will also examine your child’s heart, lungs, eyes, ears, nose, and throat.

The pediatrician may also test your child’s reflexes and joints. The results of those tests can demonstrate your child’s flexibility and reveal potential issues.

How Often Does Your Child Need Physicals?

 Pediatric physicals should always be included in your child’s wellness routine. Early in your child’s life, you don’t have to worry about scheduling physicals separately. Since they are already included in the wellness check-ups, you can be confident that the pediatrician is on top of your child’s physical condition.

As your child grows older, the need for frequent physicals decreases. Annual physicals provide sufficient information about your child’s health and development. The yearly physicals should begin when your child is three years old.

There may be occasions when you need to schedule pediatric physicals earlier. Your kid may be required to undergo a physical if they want to join a sports team at school. A physical may also be mandatory if your child wishes to participate in other school activities.

Of course, you don’t have to wait for the annual physical if you have concerns about your child’s development. You can take them to the pediatrician for a check-up whenever it’s necessary.

Visit Mid Kansas Pediatric Associates for your child’s physicals. Call 316-634-2000 for their East Wichita location, 316-773-3100 for their West Wichita office, or 316-719-2001 for their clinic in Derby, KS.