Hillsboro, OR Sports Physicals Near Me 

Need a school sports physical? AFC Hillsboro offers fast & comprehensive sports physicals for Hillsboro & the surrounding neighborhoods. 

What to Know Before Your Physical 

Before walking into AFC Hillsboro, there are a few things you should have ready. Be aware of any current medical conditions or injuries you have, as well as any medications you are taking. Bring a history of immunization and any relevant medical records. For instance, if you have any heart issues, we require proper documentation from your primary care stating that the issue does not interfere with your ability to participate in physical activities. In addition, come prepared to talk about your physical activity level and any concerns you may have about your health.  

*Please note, AFC Urgent Care can only verify immunizations administered at our clinics or with appropriate documentation showing your vaccination history. 

What is a Sports Physical? 

A Pre-Participation Physical Examination (PPE), but more commonly referred to as a sports physical, is an examination that athletes have to get before the beginning of their sports season. The purpose of a sports physical is to confirm that the athlete can safely participate in physical activities. 

Traditionally, the exam has two parts including an overview of your medical history and a physical examination. The results will determine whether the athlete is cleared to play or if a few extra steps may be needed to ensure safe participation. 

Medical History 

This section of the exam involves answering a series of questions about previous or existing medical conditions, medications and other health-related matters. Your family health history and lifestyle habits will also be discussed. 

Common topics include: 

• Any family history of serious illnesses (like cancer, heart disease and respiratory conditions) 
• Any childhood illnesses you had (asthma, diabetic issues, epilepsy or seizures) 
• History of 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 
• Struggling to breathe when exercising 
• Frequent headaches 
• Heart complications and abnormalities (murmur or irregular heartrate) 
• Liver or kidney issues 
• Regular medications including prescribed and over the counter and natural or herbal supplements 
• Any current and past mental health diagnoses or struggles (depression, anxiety, perfectionism, stress and attention deficits) 

Most health care professionals agree that medical history is the most important part of a sports physical. That’s why we recommend a parent or guardian be present to help answer the medical history questions. It’s not uncommon for children and adolescents to forget or be unaware of their family’s health history and even their own medical history.  

Physical Examination 

After the medical history section, you’ll move on to the physical exam – a thorough examination of your body. During this part, your provider will search for any signs of injury or illness.  

This will include the following:  

• Recording your height and weight 
• Checking your blood pressure, pulse, heart, lungs, abdominal area, ears, nose and throat 
• Testing your vision, hearing, muscle strength, flexibility, posture and joints 
• Checking for possible hernias 
• Checking your cholesterol, hemoglobin count and performing a urinalysis (depending on the patient’s age) 

The physician may ask different questions based upon whether the patient has started or completed puberty. However, other than that, the physical assessment is the same for male and female athletes. 

Also be prepared to talk about the use of drugs, alcohol and supplements such as weight-loss, steroids and/or performance enhancers as these can greatly affect one’s health.  

Why Are Sports Physicals Important? 

It’s normal for children and adolescents to experience a lot of changes in the span of a year, which is why annual sports physicals are important. Reviewing family medical history and a physical examination result in the identification and timely treatment of new or emerging medical conditions.  

For example, a sports physical can tell a provider that an asthmatic athlete needs a different inhaler or a modified dosage. Or an athlete struggling with knee problems needs to start wearing a knee brace or should implement knee strengthening exercises.  

When Should I Get a Sports Physical? 

We recommend getting a sports physical at least six to eight weeks prior to the beginning of your season. This time frame allows your physician plenty of time to examine you and treat any conditions that might have arisen. Plus, you’ll have plenty of time to see a specialist or get a follow-up exam if necessary.  

If you wait until the last minute to get your sports physical, you might be cutting into your practice or game time.  

What if the Exam Reveals a Problem? 

Your provider will finish and sign the sports physical exam form once the entire examination is completed. They might request additional testing, a second examination or treatment for any medical issues identified during the exam. Special accommodations such as wearing certain safety gear, having epinephrine injections on hand or using an inhaler for asthma may also be suggested.  

It’s rare that health concerns prohibit children and teens from participating in sports entirely. Some patients may just need some extra care before being officially cleared to play. 

Don’t wait any longer, walk into AFC Hillsboro for a sports physical today. Our friendly staff is here to help you no matter what season you’re in.