Sports & School Physicals: Get Ready for the School Year
A new school year often means new schedules, new activities, and for many families, a required physical. Whether your child is participating in school sports, starting a new grade, or needs an updated physical for school activities, getting it completed early can help avoid last-minute stress.
What Is a Sports or School Physical?
Sports and school physicals help make sure a student is healthy and ready to safely participate in school and athletic activities.
During the visit, we may review your child's health history and perform an age-appropriate physical examination, including:
Height, weight, blood pressure, and vital signs
Heart and lung examination
Vision screening when needed
Joint, muscle, and mobility assessment
Review of previous injuries or health concerns
Evaluation for concerns that could affect safe sports participation
For student athletes, the physical also provides an opportunity to discuss previous concussions, breathing problems, chest pain, fainting, orthopedic injuries, or other concerns that may become important during physical activity.
What Should You Bring?
Bring the physical form required by your child's school or athletic program and complete the parent or guardian portion before the appointment when possible. If your child has a significant medical condition or previous injury, bringing relevant medical information can also be helpful.
If your child wears glasses or contact lenses, bring those to the appointment as well.
Don't Wait Until the First Practice
Sports physicals have a way of sneaking up on families—especially when the school suddenly reminds you that your child's paperwork must be completed before they can practice.
Scheduling ahead gives you time to get the required paperwork completed and address any concerns that may come up during the examination.
A sports or school physical is a simple visit, but it plays an important role in helping kids start the school year healthy, active, and ready to participate.
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