Sports Physicals

Ready to play, cleared to play.

A sports physical checks that your child’s body is ready for the season, and catches problems before they become injuries. Most visits take about 20 to 30 minutes.

I find joy by doing almost any outdoor activity, including hiking, running, and exploring with our furbabies. I enjoy spending time with family and friends. I also strive to live mindfully and intentionally by creating uplifting routines and relaxing rituals.

What the doctor checks

A pre-participation exam has two parts: a health history, then a head-to-toe check focused on what sports demand of the body.

Health history

Past injuries, concussions, asthma, allergies, medicines, and any family history of heart problems.

Bones, joints, muscles

Strength, flexibility, balance, and movement tests to spot weak points or old injuries.

Heart and lungs

Heart rate, blood pressure, and a careful listen for murmurs or breathing trouble during activity.

Strength, flexibility, balance, and movement tests to spot weak points or old injuries.

Vision and general health

Eyesight, ears, skin, growth, and development, plus height and weight.

What to bring

  • The sports physical form from your school, league, or club, with your child’s section filled out
  • A list of current medicines and supplements
  • Glasses, contacts, braces, or other gear your child uses when playing
  • Records of past injuries, surgeries, or hospital visits
  • Any family history of fainting, heart conditions, or sudden death at a young age

Form requirements differ by school and state. Check with your coach or athletic director first.

When to schedule
  1. About 6 weeks before the season
    Best timing. If something needs follow-up, there is time to address it.
  2. Once a year
    Most programs want a new exam every 12 months, and kids change fast.
  3. After a major injury or illness
    Ask us if your child should be rechecked before returning to play.

Frequently Asked Questions

No. A sports physical focuses on safe participation. A well-child visit is broader and includes vaccines, nutrition, sleep, mental health, and development. We recommend keeping up with both, and we can often combine them into one appointment.

It usually means a follow-up is needed, such as a test, a specialist visit, or a treatment plan. Most children are cleared once the question is answered, sometimes with limits or adjustments.

Pulpectomy: The entire pulp — from the crown and roots — is removed, and the canals are cleaned and filled.

Yes, please book ahead. Spots fill quickly in the weeks before fall, winter, and spring seasons.

Yes. Bring the form with the parent and athlete sections completed, and we will complete the medical clearance portion at the visit.

Yes. We ask about past head injuries and symptoms every year, because a history of concussion affects how an athlete should return to play.

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