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Sports Physicals

Sports Physicals

Preventive Care That Keeps Your Child in the Game All Season Long

School sports are a great way for children and teens to stay active and have fun. In fact, physical activity is essential for youth, and make sure young athletes are ready to perform their best. Our primary care providers and pediatricians offer sports physicals, completing a thorough evaluation to make sure your child is healthy enough to play sports.

When to Get a Sports Physical

In most states, adolescents are required to get a sports physical (also called a Preparticipation Physical Examination) before they play school sports. Your school may even have specific requirements and its own sports physical form. If your child plans to play school sports, they’ll likely need to get a sports physical every year.

What to Expect at a Sports Physical

You’ll bring a sports physical form (usually from your school) to your appointment for your provider to complete. It’s helpful if you fill out the parent/guardian sections of the form before you come in for the sports physical.

Sports physicals are like a regular checkup. During your visit, your doctor will:

  • Review medical history: You’ll answer questions about your child’s health, noting any past injuries or illnesses. You’ll also need to list current medications your child takes, any symptoms they have and any diseases or conditions that run in your family.
  • Take measurements: We’ll measure your child’s height, weight and blood pressure, as well as test your child’s vision, posture, balance and flexibility.
  • Complete an internal checkup: We’ll also look at your child’s heart, lungs, abdomen, nose, throat and ears.
  • Ask other health-related questions: We’ll ask your child how they feel and about their daily habits to gain understanding of their current health and lifestyle.

Based on these assessments, the doctor will confirm if it’s safe for your child to play sports or not. If your child is cleared to play, you will leave the office with a completed form. If not, you may be referred you to other specialists for treatment.

How Much Does a Sports Physical Cost?

Our urgent care clinics offer sports physicals at a discounted rate of $25. The Children's Center provides the sports physical paperwork at no additional cost if the physical is completed with their regular annual exam or if they have been seen within the last year for their annual wellness visit. Please check with your insurance for specific pricing at our family medicine clinics.

Find a Sports Physical Near Me

Call to schedule an appointment at one of the locations listed below or visit the Family Medicine Residency Clinic or an urgent care clinic (no appointment necessary).