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DISCOVER OUR SPORTS PHYSICAL EXAM
Sports Physicals
Athletic leagues and schools often require sports physicals before your child can participate in their favorite activity. At AllCare, we provide comprehensive sports physicals to assess your athlete’s physical fitness and medical history. We offer scheduled primary care appointments and walk-ins for patients across Virginia, Washington D.C., and Maryland, making it easy for your child to get their sports physical near you.
WHO NEEDS A SPORTS PHYSICAL
Our Approach to Physicals for Sports
A sports physical is important for athletes of all ages, whether you’re a child, teen, or adult. Even if you’ve played the same sport for years, it’s essential to ensure you’re physically ready each season. A sports physical is not a replacement for your wellness exam. This check focuses on your ability to safely participate in sports, especially for individuals with previous injuries, health conditions such as asthma, or those returning to activity after taking a break.
At AllCare, your sports physical includes checking vital signs such as blood pressure, heart rate, and weight, along with an exam of your heart, lungs, and muscles. We also check for any skin issues or allergies. If anything comes up, we’ll refer you to one of our primary care providers for further care. It’s an easy way to make sure you’re good to go for the sports season!
What to Expect of a Sports Physical Exam
Blood Pressure Measurement
Measuring your blood pressure is a routine part of a sports physical. High blood pressure can indicate an underlying health issue, including cardiovascular problems, which may prevent or limit your child’s participation in sports. Monitoring blood pressure helps identify hypertension early on.
Physical Examination
During the sports physical, a comprehensive physical examination takes place. This evaluation includes assessing vital signs such as heart rate, respiratory rate, and temperature. Additionally, the healthcare provider will carefully examine your body systems, including the heart, lungs, abdomen, and skin, to identify any irregularities or indicators of potential health concerns that may require follow-up treatment from a primary care physician.
Sports Physical Form
After completing the sports physical, your provider will fill out the remainder of the form. This typically includes documenting the physical examination results, noting any health concerns or conditions that may affect participation, providing recommendations for safe participation, including restrictions and modifications, and signing and dating the form to validate it.
Medical History
This evaluation allows healthcare providers to understand your child’s past and current medical conditions, surgeries, medications, allergies, and family history. Understanding your background enables them to tailor preventative measures and screenings specific to you, ensuring a personalized approach to your healthcare.
Musculoskeletal Exam
A musculoskeletal (MSK) evaluation assesses an athlete’s joints, muscles, and overall musculoskeletal health during a sports physical. This evaluation helps identify any abnormalities or signs of injury that may restrict participation. It can also detect movement limitations in young athletes still developing their musculoskeletal and neuromuscular systems.
Vision and Hearing Screening
Vision and hearing tests are commonly conducted during a sports physical. These screenings evaluate visual clarity and identify potential hearing difficulties. By detecting impairments early, prompt and appropriate treatments can be started, ensuring your child can safely participate in the sports season.
What to Bring to a Sports Physical
AllCare offers convenient after-school, evening, and weekend hours to fit your busy schedule, ensuring your athlete can be cleared for activity as soon as possible. To make your sports physical appointment as smooth and efficient as possible, please bring the following items:
- Completed Sports Physical Form: This form is usually required by your school or sports league. You can download the official sports physical form from our website or bring the one provided by your school or organization. If you’re in Virginia, Washington D.C., or Maryland, be sure to obtain the correct state-specific form.
- Medical History: Be ready to provide your child’s medical history, including any previous injuries, surgeries, or chronic conditions such as asthma, diabetes, or heart issues. This information helps us ensure the safety of your child during physical activity.
- Immunization Records: Many schools or sports leagues require proof of updated immunizations. Please bring any relevant vaccination records to ensure your child meets all requirements for participation.
- Insurance Information: If you plan to use insurance to cover the cost of the exam, please bring your insurance card with you. This helps us process the payment quickly and accurately.
Parents Resource: 2025 Sports Physical Forms for Virginia, Washington D.C., and Maryland
We understand that schools and sports leagues in Virginia, Washington D.C., and Maryland often have specific sports physical requirements. To make it easier for you, we’ve compiled the necessary sports physical forms for each state:
- Washington D.C.: [Download the Washington D.C. Sports Physical Form]
- Maryland: [Download the Maryland Sports Physical Form]
Please bring the appropriate form for our doctors (providers) to complete to your primary care appointment. If you need assistance completing these forms or have any questions, please contact us before your visit.
Online Doctor Visits and Telehealth Services
Experience the convenience of telehealth appointments at AllCare. Our telemedicine services are designed to provide you with seamless access to healthcare without the need to leave your home. Whether you need an online doctor’s appointment for immediate or primary care, AllCare’s got you covered. With our online telehealth services currently available to individuals located in Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, D.C., you can connect with our experienced immediate and primary care physicians via secure video calls.
At AllCare, we are expanding our virtual healthcare access to all services previously offered in person. This includes:
- Online Primary Care
- Online Immediate Care
- Online Women’s Healthcare
- Online Men’s Healthcare
- Online COIVD-19 Treatment
- Online Behavioral Health
- And more!
Frequently Asked Questions About Sports Physicals
01 What is the cost of a sports physical?
The cost of a sports physical can vary depending on the provider and your insurance coverage. At AllCare, we offer affordable sports physicals and accept most major insurance plans. If you are uninsured or prefer to pay out of pocket, we offer competitive pricing to ensure athletes can access the necessary care to participate in their sport safely. Contact us today to learn more about sports physical prices and insurance options.
02 How often does my child need a sports physical?
Most sports teams and schools require a yearly sports physical to ensure that your child is still healthy enough to participate in activities, since weight fluctuations and growth spurts may place added stress on joints and muscles.
03 What’s the difference between a school physical and a sports physical?
A school physical is a general health checkup typically required for children entering school or a new grade. It focuses on overall health, growth, and development, including routine screenings and general health assessments for vision, hearing, and any necessary immunizations.
On the other hand, a sports physical, also known as a pre-participation physical examination, is specifically designed to evaluate whether an athlete is physically fit to participate in sports. It focuses on assessing musculoskeletal health, heart and lung function, and reviewing any past injuries or medical conditions that may affect the athlete’s ability to engage in their sport safely. Sports physicals are often required annually before beginning the sports season.
04 What questions might a doctor ask in a sports physical?
Doctors will ask questions to give insight into your family history and overall health and wellness. Questions could include:
- How currently active are you?
- What’s your diet like?
- How well do you sleep?
- Are you experiencing any pain or discomfort, particularly during physical activity?
- Do you have trouble breathing when you exert yourself?
- Do you have any previous injuries?
05 Does my child still need an annual wellness exam?
Yes. While sports physicals can clear your child to participate in a particular sport, annual wellness exams are a more in-depth evaluation of their overall wellness, growth, and development. During your annual wellness exam, patients also receive necessary immunizations and recommended screening labs appropriate for their age.
06 Can you fail a sports physical?
While it is possible to fail a sports physical, it’s highly unlikely to do so. If the physician uncovers any issues, such as high blood pressure, asthma, or an injury that doesn’t appear to be healing properly, they may suggest a follow-up appointment. If we discover anything unusual during a sports physical at AllCare, you’ll be recommended to a primary care physician.
STATES WHERE WE SERVE PRIMARY AND IMMEDIATE CARE
Sports Physicals in Virginia, Maryland, and Washington D.C.
At AllCare, we’re proud to deliver exceptional primary and immediate care to residents across Virginia, Maryland, and Washington D.C.. From bustling city centers to serene suburban neighborhoods, our clinics are strategically placed for your convenience and care. Experience top-tier sports physicals in your community with AllCare, where your health is our priority.
Prioritize your health today: schedule your sports physical appointment
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