Regular check-ins with your doctor are critical to spot early signs of health concerns, such as thyroid problems. At Zephyr Health in Lafayette, Colorado, Certified North American Menopause Practitioner (NCMP) Janna Gelderman-Moffett, DO, performs annual physicals for women aged 40 and older. Dr. Gelderman-Moffett is dedicated to providing comprehensive evaluations that assess your health now and prevent future problems. To learn more, call Zephyr Health or schedule an appointment online today.

request an appointment

What are annual physicals?

Annual physicals are yearly exams that evaluate your overall health. These head-to-toe assessments help identify early signs of disease and prevent future health concerns. They also serve as an opportunity for you to check in with Dr. Gelderman-Moffett about any concerns or questions you may have.

Why are annual physicals important?

Annual physicals are a form of prevention for aging adults. As you age and become more vulnerable to chronic diseases, such as Type 2 diabetes and arthritis, physical exams allow Dr. Gelderman-Moffett to spot early symptoms and provide early intervention.

Prevention and early intervention aren’t just healthier for your health and wellness. They’re also more cost-effective and less time-consuming because interventional treatments are always less costly and invasive than care for advanced conditions. Dr. Gelderman-Moffett follows the guidelines from The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force  which is an independent, volunteer panel of national experts in disease prevention and evidence-based medicine.

For example, if you experience joint pain and stiffness from early-stage osteoarthritis, exercise and anti-inflammatory medication can help preserve the healthy cartilage surrounding your joints. Once the cartilage breaks down, however, the friction between your bones may damage your joints enough to require surgery.

What happens during annual physicals?

Annual physicals include two segments: the medical history review and the physical exam. Both portions are essential for identifying and treating early health concerns.

Medical history review

During a medical history review, Dr. Gelderman-Moffett asks you detailed questions regarding your health, past and present. She asks questions about:

  • Any medications you’re taking
  • Your family history
  • Past surgeries
  • Past injuries
  • Current allergies
  • Your sexual health
  • New or worsening symptoms
  • Your vaccination status

Dr. Gelderman-Moffett may also ask specific questions depending on your age, particularly if you’re experiencing hormone imbalance symptoms.

Physical exam

The physical part of your evaluation is a complete examination in which Dr. Gelderman-Moffett checks inside your ears, nose, and throat; listens to your heart and lungs; and palpates your abdomen to ensure your organs are the correct size and in the right position. She may also test your reflexes and muscle strength.

If Dr. Gelderman-Moffett identifies any concerns that require further evaluation, she may order additional testing, such as blood work or imaging scans.

To learn more about annual physicals, call Zephyr Health or schedule an appointment online today.