Sports physicals are typically valid for one calendar year. However, some schools are different, so if your student athlete attends a school like Selwyn Elementary or Piedmont Open Middle School, check with your school administration first.

Our AFC Urgent Care Monroe Road team provides some more helpful info on sports physicals below, so read on!

Why Does My Child Need a Sports Physical?

Sports physicals are necessary because they can help you find out about and deal with health problems that might interfere with your child’s participation in a sport.

If your child has a past injury, poor heart health or allergies, sports may not be the right call for your aspiring student athlete. To evaluate your child’s health, your healthcare provider will ask about your child’s past medical history and perform a physical exam. We’ve listed the common questions and order of a sports physical below.

Typical Components of a Sports Physical

• Height and weight will be recorded.
• The doctor will take note of blood pressure and heart rates.
• A simple vision test will be performed on your child.
• Primary and sensory organs will be evaluated, such as the lungs, ears, nose and throat.
• Lastly, your child’s joints, overall strength, flexibility and posture will be checked.

Is There Anyone Who Can’t or Shouldn’t Get a Sports Physical?

Nope. While adults technically aren’t required to get a sports physical before they play in a recreation league of some sort, we would still recommend it.

In addition to clearing your child for strenuous physical activity, sports physicals offer a great opportunity for kids and adults alike to catch up with a healthcare professional and make sure that immunizations, tests and health information are up to date. We’ve listed when your child should get a sports physical below.

When Your Child Should Get a Sports Physical

• Before starting any new sport or a new sports season
• After an injury to assess an your student athlete’s ability to rejoin the chosen sport
• If a sports physical is not required by your specific state, children should still get a sports physical by the 7th grade.

If your child has yet to get his or her sports physical, don’t wait to stop by our AFC Urgent Care Monroe Road center!