Sports Physicals

An Annual Check-Up is Worth Your Time

Many adults let their annual physicals slip by, but they are especially important for growing kids, particularly if they plan to participate in a sport. Get a doctor’s opinion on their fitness level and advice on how they can stay safe and healthy! 


We consider well visits and sports physicals as the same thing because we do sports screenings at every well visit. We do have a cash pay quick sports physical visit if you need one right away and we are unable to accommodate a well visit (which is a longer visit and we ask for at least 3-4 weeks scheduling in advance). The sports physical charge is $45.00 is not covered by insurance.


These quick sports physicals do NOT replace a well child visit and you will still be asked to schedule one.

Why Schedule A Sports Physical?
  • Ensure your child is prepared for vigorous physical activity
  • Gather information on your child’s health and development
  • Watch for potential warning signs of serious illness
  • Meet the requirements of your child’s school, camp, or sports team
  • Identify possible risk factors with a certain sport
  • Receive advice on avoiding injuries

Regular physicals are an important part of preventative pediatric care. They give a doctor the opportunity to examine your child, evaluate their health and fitness, and determine whether or not they are prepared for sports or school activities. Annual physicals, even when not required by a certain organization, should be a part of your child’s ongoing healthcare because they also provide an important opportunity to discuss your child’s development and any concerns you may have.

What To Expect

A school or sports physical may each have a different purpose, but the process is the same! Any physical will include a couple components, including a physical examination and questions about your child’s current health and family medical history.

  • Physical Examination May Include:
    • Record of height and weight
    • Record of blood pressure
    • Vision test
    • Examination of abdomen, ears, nose, and throat
    • Examination of heart and lung function
    • Mobility and flexibility test
    • Evaluation of posture, joints, and strength
  • Questions May Include:
    • Are there any serious illnesses among your immediate family members?
    • Does your child have any ongoing illnesses, such as diabetes, asthma, or epilepsy?
    • Has your child experienced any previous hospitalizations or surgeries?
    • Does your child have any known allergies?
    • Has your child experienced any serious injuries in the past, such as a concussion or bone fracture?
    • Does your child experience dizziness, chest pain, or trouble breathing during exercise?
    • What medications is your child on?
  • When To Schedule Your Child's Sports Physical

    Healthcare professionals recommend a physical exam at least once a year for everyone, whether it’s for yourself or for your child. If your child’s school requires annual physicals, then try to make an appointment well before the school year starts to have the records you need on hand. If you are scheduling a sports physical for a specific season, then talk to our pediatric office about six weeks before the season starts to leave room for any follow-up appointments that may be necessary. 


    If your child is healing from an injury, like a broken bone, then regardless of the time of year, you should seek a doctor’s opinion before they start participating in any sports or rigorous activities again.
Contact Us Today To Get Started

Schedule your child’s check-up today with Pediatric Associates of Northern Colorado! We are conveniently located in Fort Collins, just a few minutes from I-25, and we are proud to serve families across the Front Range and beyond. You can call our office to schedule an appointment, and if you ever need advice, you can reach one of our doctors 24/7.

Call us today to learn more!

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