The Pediatric Physical Exam at Our Richardson Practice
A routine physical is the most effective tool we have for monitoring your child’s health from birth through college. For our practice, which has been at the same N. Floyd Road location since 1991, these exams are the foundation of a long-term relationship. It allows us to build a detailed health baseline for your child, making it easier to diagnose issues accurately when you call us for a same-day sick visit.
These aren't just appointments for clearing school paperwork. They are dedicated sessions where we track growth velocity, screen for developmental delays, discuss North Texas-specific health issues like seasonal allergies, and answer your questions without the pressure of a crowded waiting room.
What to Expect at Your Child’s Routine Physical Exam According to Age
Every stage of childhood is unique, and so is our approach to each well-child visit. Here is a look at what we focus on during these crucial appointments as your child grows.
The First Two Years: A Time of Rapid Growth
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends frequent visits starting with newborn care and through toddlerhood because development happens so quickly.
- Physical Checks: We meticulously track growth on the charts (height, weight, head circumference), check vital signs, administer immunizations, and perform a head-to-toe examination.
- Developmental Milestones: We’ll discuss key milestones, such as smiling, rolling over, babbling, and taking first steps, using validated screening tools to ensure your child is meeting their targets.
- Parent Guidance: These visits are packed with guidance on feeding, sleep schedules, introducing solid foods, and critical safety topics like safe sleep and baby-proofing your home.
The Preschool & School-Age Years (Ages 3-10)
As your child becomes more independent, the focus of our pediatric routine physical exam expands to include their social and emotional world.
- Physical Checks: In addition to a complete physical, we begin tracking blood pressure and Body Mass Index (BMI). We also conduct vision and hearing screenings to catch any issues that could impact learning.
- Developmental Milestones: We assess speech and language development, fine and gross motor skills, and social skills, asking about how they are adjusting to school and peer environments.
- Parent Guidance: Conversations often shift to potty training, managing picky eaters, establishing healthy sleep routines, and setting consistent, positive discipline.
Adolescence & Teen Years (Ages 11-21)
This stage brings new challenges and a need for confidential, respectful care. The adolescent routine physical exam becomes a vital time to empower teens to take ownership of their health.
- Physical Checks: We continue to monitor growth and perform screenings for conditions like scoliosis, always with respect for your teen's privacy.
- Emotional & Social Health: We confidentially screen for anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns, and open the door for conversations about school, peer pressure, and healthy relationships.
- Health & Safety Guidance: We provide crucial counseling on topics like the dangers of vaping, substance use, and safe driving in a safe and non-judgmental space.
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The Importance of Your Child's Annual Wellness Exam
This yearly appointment is a key part of your child's long-term health. Whether you call it an annual checkup or a wellness exam, this visit allows your primary care provider to build a complete picture of their well-being. We perform a thorough check of your child’s entire body, listening for any new symptoms and tracking their development. For older children, this annual exam might include routine blood work, and we always take the time to clearly explain the results. These yearly physical exams are a vital component of preventative healthcare, and choosing a consistent care provider ensures a trusted partnership year after year.
A Foundation for Comprehensive Care
The routine physical exam is the cornerstone of our pediatric services. The detailed health history and trusted relationship we build during these well-child visits allow us to provide more effective and personalized health care services when other needs arise.
Whether you're coming in for acute illnesses, managing chronic conditions, a same-day sick visit, an adolescent physical examination, or have questions about developmental milestones, the foundation we've built during these check-ups makes all the difference.
The Doctors Behind Your Child’s Care
Our practice is intentionally small, ensuring you see the same trusted physicians at every visit.
John R. Porter, MD, PA
A Dallas native, Dr. Porter earned his degree in Microbiology from Colorado State University before returning to Texas for medical school. He completed his pediatric residency and served as Chief Resident at Children's Medical Center of Dallas. Board-certified in pediatrics, he has been practicing from this same Richardson office since 1991.
Laura Galloway, MD
Dr. Galloway graduated magna cum laude from the University of Dallas and received her medical degree from the University of Texas Medical Branch. She also completed her residency at Children's Medical Center Dallas, where she later worked in the Emergency Department, giving her invaluable experience in acute pediatric care.
Why Our Approach Is Different
We have structured our entire practice around a patient-first philosophy, informed by over three decades of serving this community.
Schedule Your Child's Exam Today
Proactive care is the best care. Proactive care is the best care. Whether your child is due for their annual check-up or you're looking for a new board-certified pediatrician, we are here to help.
Call our office today at 972-235-6911 to schedule your child’s routine physical exam.
Frequently Asked Questions about Physicals
The exam typically includes a medical history review, measuring vital signs like height, weight, temperature, blood pressure, and heart rate. The pediatrician performs a full physical assessment including vision and hearing screenings, checks of the heart, lungs, abdomen, skin, and reflexes. Developmental milestones or behavioral assessments may also be included. For more details, please visit our Pediatric Physical Exam page for Richardson, TX.