The Importance of Physical Exams

At JC Peds in Jefferson City, MO, Dr. Hildegard Emslander, Dr. Lora Folz, and Dr. Jason Hagely are dedicated to ensuring your child’s health and well-being through routine physical exams. These check-ups are a vital part of pediatric care, helping to monitor growth, development, and overall health while addressing potential concerns early.

How a Wellness Visit Supports Physical Health

During a typical wellness visit, your doctor will complete your child's examination. This includes measuring weight, height, and vital signs. They also check hearing, vision, and reflexes to ensure their senses function properly. Developmental markers are assessed at each stage to identify potential concerns early.

Growth deficiencies may stem from poor sleep, as lack of restful sleep inhibits growth hormones. Nutritional deficiencies due to an imbalanced diet can also impact growth. Your doctor can provide guidance on improving sleep and nutrition and diagnosing any underlying hormonal or hereditary conditions affecting development.

How a Wellness Visit Supports Mental Health

A physical exam is not just about the body—it also evaluates your child’s mental and emotional well-being. In addition to a thorough physical exam, doctors observe behavior, responsiveness, and parent-reported concerns.

For infants, simple eye-tracking tests ensure proper engagement. Doctors assess interactions with healthcare providers for older children and review concerns about school and home behavior. If further evaluation is needed, your doctor can provide child counseling or psychiatric services referrals.

Additional Screenings During Physical Exams

Physical exams may also include screenings for:

• Mental health concerns such as anxiety and depression.
• Developmental issues like ADHD, autism, and learning delays.

Schedule Your Child’s Physical Exam Today

Regular physical exams are key to helping your child live a healthy, active life. For expert pediatric care, contact JC Peds in Jefferson City, MO, and schedule your child’s appointment with Dr. Hildegard Emslander, Dr. Lora Folz, or Dr. Jason Hagely. Call (573) 606-7337 today to ensure your child’s well-being.