Physicals

Physicals provide important insights into your health and help you make necessary changes to prevent serious illness. At Gorman Medical, PC, the team of experienced primary care and pain management specialists offer sports physicals, annual physicals, and other exams at two convenient locations in Colorado Springs and Cripple Creek, Colorado. Call the nearest office or click the online booking feature to schedule your physical now.

What are physicals?

Physicals, short for physical exams, are medical appointments that assess your general whole-body health. Gorman Medical, PC, offers general physicals and specific types of physicals based on your family’s needs. 

What happens during a physical?

Physicals vary by type, but in general they include:

• Medical history review
• Vital signs check
• Height and weight check
• Physical appearance assessment
• Organ evaluation (heart, lungs, and other organs)
• Head and neck exam
• Skin exam
• Abdomen check
• Muscle function and strength assessment
• Reflexes check
• Nervous system evaluation
• Mental health assessment
• Review of current medications

Generally, physical exams include lab tests, for example, blood or urine tests to check your cholesterol, blood sugar, and other important metrics. Your lab tests can help detect health issues early so you can start effective treatment now. 

A general physical is usually more extensive than a sports physical, as a sports physical primarily focuses on whether a student is physically fit for sports participation. Gorman Medical, PC, also offers other types of physicals, like pre-employment physicals, based on patient needs.

When should I schedule physicals? 

The team recommends annual wellness physicals for patients of every age. These yearly physicals become more important than ever as you age. About 95% of older adults have a chronic condition, but wellness physicals help you get a jump on treatment to stay well.

For specific physicals, the frequency depends on the situation. For example, most children need to have sports physicals before the start of the school year if they’re playing sports. Additionally, some employers may require physicals before you start work or as a condition of maintaining employment. 

If you need a physical, the team can review your needs and recommend the best time to set your schedule.

How do I prepare for physicals?

The Gorman Medical, PC, team makes it easy to prepare for your physical by providing recommendations ahead of time, such as:

• Prepare a list of your current medications 
• Make a list of your personal medical history (allergies, surgeries, etc.)
• Send medical records from other doctors to the office
• Create a list of questions and concerns you want to discuss

During a physical exam, you receive a lot of information, so bring a notepad or your phone to take notes if you’re worried about forgetting anything. 

Are you due to have a physical exam? Call Gorman Medical, PC, or book an appointment online today.