Introduction to Health Screenings for Tennis Players
The Miami Open attracts the world’s top tennis players to South Florida and at the foundation of their success is their health. As the tournament takes place this week, only NBC6 got a look inside the comprehensive health screenings the players have to go through before they play.
For two weeks, the club level at Hard Rock Stadium looks very different, as each suite has a different doctor.
The Importance of Health Screenings
"It’s so valuable, because this is their stop for their health. Their health impacts their performance," said Women’s Tennis Association Senior VP of performance Health, Kathleen Stroia. "We begin with a DEXA scan, a DEXA scan is for body composition." Stroia has led the health and wellness program for professional tennis players for more than 30 years.
Comprehensive Health Check-ups
Before hitting the hard court, each female player is required to make their way down the hall of doctors, stopping at more than 11 specialists, from the cardiologist to the dermatologist. "My station is dermatology, and I’m all about sun safety and putting on sunscreen on their ears and on their lips, which players have always forgotten to do through the years,” said WTA dermatologist Dr. Bryan Adams. That’s especially critical playing under the South Florida sun.
The Challenges of Scheduling Medical Appointments
Professional tennis players travel upwards of 11 months out of the year, making it difficult to schedule a doctor’s appointment. Last year, the exams led to a breast cancer diagnosis for professional doubles player Gabriela Dabrowski. She went on to play a very successful season, even winning in the Olympics. "I’m very grateful to the improvement of technology and breast cancer and all the research that’s been done and to treatments," Dabrowski said.
Beyond Traditional Exams
From breast health, to pelvic floor therapy, mental health, and gynecology, these screenings go beyond traditional exams. WTA officials said it helps when top players like Naomi Osaka speak so openly about mental health. "I think it helps enormously because players look up to their peers, players who’ve won Grand Slams like Naomi,” said WTA senior director of mental health, Kathy Martin.
Setting the Stage for Female Sports
And as the players pave new ways, the WTA and its partner Hologic are hoping to as well, setting the stage for female sports. “We hope that it’s a model for women’s health and sports,” said Stroia. The WTA hopes it’s not just an inspiration for other female sports but also all females to advocate for themselves and make health their first stop as well.
Conclusion
The comprehensive health screenings provided to tennis players at the Miami Open are a crucial aspect of their success. By prioritizing their health, these athletes can perform at their best and set an example for others to follow. The WTA’s efforts to provide these screenings and promote health awareness are a step in the right direction, and it’s hoped that this will become a model for other sports and inspire individuals to prioritize their health.
FAQs
- Q: What kind of health screenings do tennis players undergo at the Miami Open?
A: Tennis players undergo comprehensive health screenings, including DEXA scans, dermatology checks, breast health exams, pelvic floor therapy, mental health evaluations, and gynecology exams. - Q: Why are these health screenings important for tennis players?
A: These health screenings are important because they help identify potential health issues early on, allowing players to receive treatment and prevent more serious problems from developing. - Q: How often do tennis players travel and how does it affect their ability to schedule medical appointments?
A: Tennis players travel for up to 11 months out of the year, making it challenging to schedule medical appointments. - Q: What is the significance of top players like Naomi Osaka speaking openly about mental health?
A: When top players like Naomi Osaka speak openly about mental health, it helps to reduce stigma and encourages other players to prioritize their mental well-being.
