What to Expect at Your Child’s Sports Physical
Whether this is your child’s first sports physical or your fifth in as many years, knowing what to expect helps the visit go smoothly. Here’s a clear breakdown of what the exam covers, what to bring, and whether any lab work is typically involved.
What to Bring to the Appointment
- A completed health history form — most schools and sports organizations have their own form; check with yours in advance
- A list of your child’s current medications and supplements
- Records of any previous injuries, surgeries, or hospitalizations
- Your insurance card
- Any school or league clearance forms that need a provider signature
What the Provider Will Evaluate
Medical History Review
The visit begins with a detailed health history. Your provider will ask about family history of heart conditions, sudden unexplained death in young relatives, episodes of fainting or chest pain during activity, known asthma, diabetes, prior concussions, or any musculoskeletal injuries. Be thorough — these answers shape the entire exam.
Physical Examination
The physical examination typically covers:
- Height, weight, and BMI
- Blood pressure and resting heart rate
- Vision screening
- Heart and lung auscultation — listening for murmurs, arrhythmias, or abnormal breath sounds
- Abdominal check for organ enlargement
- Skin assessment
- Musculoskeletal evaluation — range of motion, joint stability, strength, previous injury sites
Will My Child Need Lab Tests?
In the vast majority of cases, no. A standard sports physical does not require blood work or urinalysis. Lab tests are only ordered when the history or physical exam points to a specific concern — for example, checking for iron deficiency anemia in an athlete who fatigues easily, or a urine test if kidney-related symptoms are present. Your provider will clearly explain if any follow-up testing is recommended.
Possible Outcomes
Most children receive full clearance to participate. If the exam identifies a concern, your provider may issue conditional clearance (participation allowed with specific modifications) or defer clearance until further evaluation is completed. This is uncommon, but catching something before the season is always the right call.
Schedule your child’s sports physical at our Las Vegas or Henderson office. Call (702) 457-5437 — we make the process quick and easy.
