Camas, WA Sports Physicals Near Me
Visit our urgent care for school & sports physicals in Camas & the surrounding Vancouver area. Open 7
days a week with extended hours.
Whether it’s your first season or your tenth season playing a sport, one thing is certain: you’ll
need a sports physical. These exams help identify potential health concerns, confirm you can meet the demands of
the sport, and give you peace of mind as the season begins. Before you hit the field, court or pool, stop by AFC
Camas for a convenient and affordable sports physical.
What is a Sports Physical?
A sports physical, also known as a pre-participation physical exam (PPE), is an evaluation performed by a medical
provider to determine whether you’re ready to join a particular sport. Most schools and athletic
organizations (including those in Clark County) require this exam before the start of a new season.
Do I Need to Bring Anything?
Our clinic strives to keep the process as simple as possible, but there are a few things you can do to help
us.
- Bring completed health and immunization history forms
- Provide documentation from your medical provider or treating physician if you have a heart condition or
history of heart problems, confirming you are cleared to play
- Wear comfortable clothing so you can have full mobility during the exam
*Please note, AFC Urgent Care can only verify vaccinations given at our clinics or with proper documentation
of your child’s immunization record.
What Does a Sports Physical Include?
A standard sports physical has two main parts.
- Medical history
- Physical examination
Medical History
This part of the exam is verbal. A provider will ask a series of questions regarding previous or ongoing medical
conditions, medications, injuries and any other health concerns. Be prepared to discuss the following topics:
- Family history of any serious illnesses (Cancer, heart disease, respiratory issues, etc.)
- Any current illness or previous illness when you were younger (asthma, diabetic issues, epilepsy or
seizures)
- Earlier hospitalizations or surgeries
- Allergies to medication, food or insect bites
- Previous injuries (broken bones, sprains/strains, dislocations and concussions)
- Loss of consciousness, dizziness or fainting spells
- Any chest pain or discomfort
- Difficulty breathing when working out or exercising
- Frequent headaches
- Heart problems (murmur or irregular heartbeat)
- Liver or kidney problems
- Any medicines that you regularly take (both prescription and non-prescription medications, natural or herbal
supplements)
- Mental health (depression, anxiety, perfectionism, stress and attention deficits)
Because children or teens may not recall all their medical history, a parent or guardian should be present to
help answer these questions. Providers often consider this history the most crucial part of the exam.
While you may be fearful to share your medical concerns, honesty is very important during a sports physical.
Untreated symptoms could lead to a worsening condition that might hinder you from playing sports.
Physical Examination
The provider will then:
- Record height, weight, blood pressure and pulse
- Test vision and hearing
- Listen to the heart and lungs
- Check the abdomen, ears, nose and throat
- Test for hernias
- Evaluate posture, joint function, strength and flexibility
Depending on the age and health of the patient, additional screenings such as cholesterol checks, blood counts or
urinalysis may be done. The exam is generally the same for boys and girls, though providers may ask different
questions depending on whether the individual has started or completed puberty.
Providers may also ask about drug, alcohol or supplement use, including performance enhancers or weight-loss
aids, since these can affect health and athletic safety.
Why Sports Physicals Matter
Children and teens grow and change quickly, and their health needs can shift from year to year. Sports physicals
are one way to stay on top of your health.
Some of the benefits include:
- Adjustment of treatment plans for conditions like asthma
- Helpful recommendations for exercises and stretches that prevent injuries
- Identifying protective equipment or medications that may now be needed
- Catching new issues before they interfere with sports participation
Even small changes, like moving to a different position on the team, can affect your health needs.
When to Schedule
Plan to schedule a sports physical six to eight weeks before the season begins. This allows time for:
- A thorough exam
- Addressing any concerns
- Completing follow-up testing or referrals, if needed
Scheduling your sports physical ahead of time guarantees you won’t have to miss practice or a game.
If a Problem is Found
At the conclusion of the exam, the AFC provider will fill out the sports clearance form. Should anything concern
them, they may recommend:
- Additional testing or follow-up visits
- Specific protective gear
- Emergency medications (such as an EpiPen for severe allergies)
- Adjustments to asthma medication or inhaler use
Most health conditions do not prevent kids from participating in physical activity. A sports physical simply
helps families and coaches prepare for a safe, healthy season. Get prepared for the busy sports season with AFC
Camas.
We’re open seven days a week and no appointment is necessary. No matter what season, walk-in anytime for a
comprehensive sports physical.