Prevention is key.
How do you know if you need a sports physical?
01
You or your student athlete is required to have a sports physical to play.
02
You’ve recognized that preventing injuries is vital to success.
03
You want someone who cares about keeping you healthy.
04
You’re looking for a sports expert who will let you know if there may be something holding back your performance.
What happens during a sports physical?
There are two parts to the sports physical:
- Medical History
- Physical Exam
The medical history part of the exam includes questions about:
- Allergies
- Asthma
- Dizziness or collapsing during an activity
- Family health history
- History of weight loss or gain
- Menstrual history
- Past heat illnesses, concussions, and/or fractures
- Substance use (ex. drugs, alcohol, dietary substances, and/or performance enhancing drugs like steroids)
- Use of glasses or contacts
The physical exam will evaluate different areas of the body including the
- Abdomen
- Blood pressure and pulse
- Ear
- Genitals
- Heart
- Height
- Lungs
- Musculoskeletal system
- Nose
- Throat
- Vision
- Weight
WHAT HAPPENS IF THE DOCTOR FINDS A PROBLEM ON A SPORTS PHYSICAL?
We find someone to help you.
With pre-participation physicals, a doctor can choose from three options:
-
- Cleared for all sports without restriction (AKA the “Green Light”).
This means the athlete can participate in the sport or activity requested. The physical is usually valid for 2 years. - Cleared for all sports without restrictions with recommendation for further evaluation or treatment (AKA the “Yellow Light”).
A doctor marks this option if they have next steps they want you to take before participating in the sport or activity. The doctor will give you a clear explanation about why they are providing the recommendation and what to do next. - Not cleared
A doctor may choose this option for a few different reasons, such as when further evaluation is pending (common), when you should only avoid certain sports (uncommon), or when you should avoid any sport (very rare).
- Cleared for all sports without restriction (AKA the “Green Light”).
You may be referred to another physician for further examination, diagnostic testing, or lab work. We will help you find the healthcare expert best suited for your needs.
Understand your sports physical
Sports Physical (Pre-participation Physical Examination) FAQs and Answers
What is a sports physical?
A sports physical, or pre-participation physical examination (PPE), is often seen as an inconvenience to participating in a sport. These exams are very important, because the exams provide a way for a doctor to identify if any health problems may interfere with the athlete participating in the sport.
How much does a sports physical cost?
A sports physical is $35.00.
How long is a sports physical?
Most sports physicals are approximately 15 minutes for the exam time.
Are sports physicals covered by insurance?
No, a sports physical is not covered by insurance.
Do you have to be a current or established patient to receive a sports physical?
No, you do not need to be an established patient in our office to come for sports physical. Please let a patient coordinator know that you would like to schedule a sports physical upon making an appointment.
Have another sports physical question? We’re happy to help.
