Cedar Hills, OR Sports Physicals Near Me 

Looking for affordable & quick school sports physicals? Walk into AFC Cedar Hills today. We serve Cedar Hills & the surrounding Portland area. 

What do volleyball, wrestling, football and lacrosse all have in common? You need a sports physical before you can participate in any of them. In fact, most states – including Oregon, require athletes to obtain a sports physical before engaging in any competitive sports. 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. Below, we’ve outlined everything you need to know about sports physicals.  

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 require this exam before the start of a new season (regardless of what kind of sport you intend to play). 

How to Prepare for Your Visit 

To help the exam go smoothly, please bring: 

• Completed health and immunization history forms 
• Documentation from your medical provider or treating physician if you have a heart condition or history of heart problems, affirming you are cleared to play 
• Wear comfortable clothing so you can have full mobility during the exam 

*AFC Urgent Care can only verify vaccinations given at our clinics or with proper documentation of your child’s immunization record. 

What Happens During a Sports Physical? 

A sports physical only has two main sections: medical history and a physical exam. 

Medical History 

Your provider will ask you questions about previous or ongoing medical conditions, medications, injuries and any other health concerns. All you have to do is verbally answer.  

You can expect to cover topics such as: 

• 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 or 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. This can range from prescription and non-prescription medications and natural or herbal supplements. 
• Mental health (depression, anxiety, perfectionism, stress and attention deficits) 

Often, children and teens cannot recount their entire medical history. So, we encourage a parent or guardian to be present to help answer these questions. Health care professionals usually consider this portion to be the most essential part of the exam. 

It can be easy to withhold information from medical providers, so don’t be intimidated. Our compassionate team at AFC Cedar Hills is here to help treat symptoms so they don’t worsen or hinder you from playing the sport you love.  

Physical Examination 

After the medical history portion, you can expect the provider to perform the following: 

• 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 age and health, additional screenings such as cholesterol checks, blood counts or urinalysis may be done. We may also inquire about the use of drugs, alcohol or supplements. Please keep in mind that those include performance enhancers or weight-loss aids, since these can affect health and athletic safety. 

Male and female patients can generally expect the same exam, though providers may ask different questions depending on whether the individual has started or completed puberty. 

Do Sports Physicals Matter? 

Yes, and here’s why! During their adolescent years, athletes can grow and change quickly; therefore their health needs shift from year to year. A sports physical helps providers: 

• Adjust treatment plans for conditions like asthma 
• Recommend exercises or stretches to prevent injury 
• Identify protective equipment or medications that may now be needed  
• Catch new issues before they interfere with sports participation 

Even small changes, like your 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 

When you plan ahead, you can ensure no practices or games are missed. 

If a Problem is Found 

Once the exam is completed, your provider will sign and fill out the sports clearance form. If they have any concerns, 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 

Typically, if health conditions are found or are presently active, you will not be prevented from physical activity. We just want to make sure you have a safe and healthy season and the best way to do that is through a sports physical exam.  

Finally, remember that even if you have a sports physical every season, if it is not a complete physical exam, you should still receive a comprehensive health exam annually. 

The sports season is busy, so stay proactive with AFC Cedar Hills. We’ll get your exam finished in a timely manner and when needed provide expert medical treatment plans tailored to your needs.