Orchards, WA Sports Physicals Near Me 

Visit our urgent care for school & sports physicals in Orchards & the surrounding Vancouver area. No appointments are needed, just walk in!

There’s more to sports than just staying fit and healthy. Being on a sports team builds confidence, teamwork and communication skills. While your child is probably eager to hit the court, field or pool they will need to undergo a sports physical. This is a simple, routine exam that helps determine whether they are capable of handling the mental and physical demands of competitive sports.  

Preparing for Your Visit 

A little preparation can go a long way. Here are a few things you should bring to AFC for a sports physical. 

• Any required school or league forms 
• Completed health and immunization history 
• Documentation from your child’s provider if they have a history of heart problems, confirming safe participation 
• Have your child wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing (for easier mobility during the exam) 

Note: AFC Urgent Care can only verify immunizations given at our clinics or with proper documentation of your vaccination history. 

What is a Sports Physical? 

Sports physicals, also known as a pre-participation physical exam (PPE), is an examination that confirms whether your child or teen is healthy enough to participate in sports. Most states (including Washington), require student athletes to complete a physical before each new season. On the rare chance a sports physical is not required, we still encourage you to get one if you are involved in a physical activity. 

What Happens During a Sports Physical? 

A standard sports physical at AFC Orchards consists of two main sections. 

1. Medical History 
2. Physical Examination 

Medical History 

This part covers both personal and family health, including: 

• Family history of serious illness (heart disease, cancer and respiratory conditions) 
• Past or current health conditions (asthma, diabetes and seizures) 
• Surgeries or hospitalizations 
• Allergies to food, medication or insect bites 
• Past injuries (fractures, concussions, sprains and dislocations) 
• Symptoms like chest pain, fainting, dizziness or shortness of breath, especially during exercise 
• Frequent headaches 
• Heart, kidney or liver problems 
• Regular medications or supplements (prescription, over-the-counter or herbal) 
• Mental health 

Because kids may not remember every detail, a parent or guardian should be present to help answer these questions. Providers often consider this history the most important part of the exam. 

Physical Exam 

The physical exam is a thorough check of overall health and typically includes: 

• Recording height, weight, blood pressure and pulse 
• Vision and hearing screening 
• Heart, lung, abdominal, ear, nose and throat exam 
• Checking muscle strength, posture, flexibility and joint health 
• Hernia screening (when appropriate) 
• Additional labs such as cholesterol, hemoglobin or urinalysis depending on age 

Male and females can expect the same physical examination, but different questions may be asked depending on whether the patient has started or completed puberty. Providers may also ask about the use of supplements, vitamins or performance enhancers. It’s important to answer honestly since these can impact health and athletic safety. 

Why Get a Sports Physical Every Year? 

Children and teens grow and change quickly, and their health needs can shift from one season to the next. Here are four ways that an annual sports physical can help: 

1. Diagnose new or chronic medical issues 
2. Modify prescriptions for conditions such as asthma 
3. Recommend exercises and stretches to prevent injuries 
4. Verify safe participation  

When to Schedule 

In some situations, a second exam, a referral to a specialist or additional testing may be needed. That’s why we suggest getting a sports physical six to eight weeks before the season begins. Planning ahead ensures that your child is cleared to play and doesn’t have to miss a practice or game. However, a sports physical should not take the place of an annual health exam. It’s important to see your primary care physician at least once a year.  

What if There is a Problem After the Exam? 

After the evaluation is finished, the provider will fill out and sign the sports physical exam form. But sometimes further testing, follow-up care or a new treatment plan may be required. 

AFC providers may suggest specific changes such as utilizing safety equipment and inhalers or having epinephrine shots on hand for severe insect allergies. If our providers recommend any adaptations or treatments, it’s important to follow their instructions.  

Generally, most health concerns will not prohibit athletes from participating in sports; they may just need something as simple as treatment or a secondary exam to play.  

Whether it’s your child’s first season playing a sport or their tenth, we encourage you to plan ahead by booking a sports physical at our clinic. We offer comprehensive exams in a state-of-the-art facility with a team dedicated to caring for you and your family. 

While we don’t officially schedule appointments, you can use our online portal to save your spot today at AFC Orchards.