Physicals Specialist

What are physicals?

Physicals are detailed examinations that serve to check on your health status. While they don’t always lead to any diagnoses or highlight any concerns, they allow you and your providers to track your health over time. 

When you come in for a physical at Integrative Wellness Center, the team asks for any relevant updates on your health since your last visit. You can also mention any concerns you have about your health. Then, the team measures your height and weight. 

The rest of the physical can vary based on your age, gender, and health risks, but generally includes:

• Vital signs
• Heart exam
• Lung exam 
• Neurological exam
• Head and neck exam
• Abdominal exam
• Skin exam

You may also use your physical appointment as an opportunity to get any necessary screenings or vaccinations. If the team makes any concerning discoveries, they may add blood tests, urinalysis, biopsies, or other additional tests. 

When do I need a physical?

You should get a physical about once a year. A yearly physical is called an annual exam, and the team at Integrative Wellness Center can tell you if a yearly exam suffices or if you should consider getting them more often due to health concerns.

There are other purposes for getting a physical too. You may need one if you plan on starting a new sport or physical activity, for work purposes, or for school enrollment. No matter your reason for getting one, the team at Integrative Wellness Center can fill out any necessary paperwork that shows the details of your health.

What are the benefits of getting physicals?

When you’re perfectly healthy and feeling fine, it may seem pointless to go to the doctor for a physical. However, there are plenty of benefits to consider when scheduling a physical exam. A few of those benefits are:

• Building a stronger relationship with your primary care provider
• Gaining helpful advice on health and lifestyle
• Getting answers to your questions about health
• Identifying changes or fluctuations in your health by tracking it over time
• Getting early diagnoses, which lead to better results from treatment

Near the end of every physical exam appointment at Integrative Wellness Center, the team discusses their findings with you and asks about your lifestyle. Based on the results of your physical and your self-reported answers, they can tell you if there are any beneficial changes you can make to your routine that might improve your health. 

For more information on physicals and when to get one, call Integrative Wellness Center or book an appointment online today.