What to Expect During an Adolescent Checkup

Schedule your child’s adolescent checkups in Milford and Hyde Park, OH, by calling ESD Pediatric Group.

What Are the Physical Components of an Adolescent Checkup?

Regular checkups are essential to staying healthy. That doesn’t stop being true as we grow older. Even though your child no longer needs to see the doctor once every three months, they can still benefit from routine wellness exams.

Adolescents should see the doctor at least once per year.

So, what happens during those annual adolescent checkups?

Physical examinations are core parts of those wellness appointments. To get started, the pediatrician will likely measure your child’s height and weight and note their progress on a growth chart. Working with the same pediatrician is highly recommended so they can keep close tabs on your child’s growth. These exams can also determine if your child’s height and weight are within the expected range for their age.

The Milford and Hyde Park, OH, pediatrician will also examine your child’s heart and lungs. They will listen for any abnormalities and alert you to their presence if detected.

Musculoskeletal exams are also included in adolescent checkups. Expect the pediatrician to check your child’s reflexes and joint stability. The pediatrician may also check your child’s spinal curvature.

Vaccinations are also updated during adolescent checkups. Don’t get complacent about your child’s vaccinations just because they're older. Some vaccinations only start during the teenage years.

What Can You Expect from the Pediatrician Interviews?

During the checkup, the pediatrician may set aside time to talk to your teenager. These conversations allow your child to discuss important matters including their eating habits, concerns about their physical development, and relationships with their peers.

Some teenagers are not comfortable discussing certain topics when their parents are present. They may only bring up discussions about sexual activity and alcohol consumption during the conversations with their pediatrician. Don’t be surprised if your child asks to keep those matters private.

Still, you can rest assured that the pediatrician will tell you about matters that could put your child at risk of harm.

Call (513) 248-1210 today to schedule adolescent checkups in Milford and Hyde Park, OH, with the ESD Pediatric Group.