Yes, a previous concussion may be relevant during your child’s sports physical, particularly if the injury was recent, symptoms lasted longer than expected, or they’ve experienced multiple concussions. A past concussion that has fully healed doesn’t automatically prevent a student from participating in sports. However, an active concussion or ongoing symptoms should be evaluated before returning to athletic activities.
During a sports physical, the provider reviews your child's health history and overall condition to identify concerns that may affect participation. Parents should mention any previous concussion or head injury and share information about their recovery, even if they’ve already returned to normal activities. For families preparing for school and sports seasons in Kent and the surrounding area, addressing these concerns before participation can help ensure the physical includes an accurate health history.
If you need a sports physical near Kent WA, walk into AFC Urgent Care Southcenter for same-day care or schedule an appointment online. We are open Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM and Saturday from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. We are closed on Sundays.
Can My Child Play Sports After Recovering From a Concussion?
In many cases, a child can return to sports after recovering from a concussion and receiving appropriate medical guidance. A previous concussion alone does not necessarily mean your kid will be restricted from participating in athletics.
However, an active or recent concussion is different from a concussion that has fully resolved. If your child is still experiencing symptoms or has recently suffered a head injury, they should follow the guidance of the healthcare professional managing their recovery before returning to sports.
Is a Sports Physical the Same as Concussion Clearance?
Not necessarily. A sports physical evaluates overall health and may identify concerns related to sports participation, while concussion recovery and return-to-play decisions may require separate evaluation and guidance.
If your child is currently recovering from a concussion or experiencing symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, difficulty concentrating, or balance problems, discuss those concerns with a healthcare professional before they return to athletic activities.
What If My Child Has Had More Than One Concussion?
A history of multiple concussions is important to discuss during a sports physical. Be prepared to share information about when the injuries occurred, the symptoms your child experienced, and how their recovery progressed.
Multiple previous head injuries doesn’t automatically mean an athlete cannot participate in sports. However, a complete concussion history can help the provider determine whether there are concerns that should be evaluated further or whether additional medical guidance may be appropriate.
What If Concussion Symptoms Come Back?
Your child should be evaluated if concussion-like symptoms return, especially if they occur during sports or after another head injury. Symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, confusion, balance problems, or difficulty concentrating should not be ignored.
Prompt evaluation can help determine whether symptoms may be related to a new injury or another health concern. If your child experiences severe symptoms or signs of a medical emergency, seek emergency medical care immediately.
Visit AFC Urgent Care Southcenter for a Sports Physical
AFC Urgent Care Southcenter provides sports and school physicals for families in Kent, Tukwila, SeaTac, Renton, and the surrounding communities. We offer convenient care for families seeking a sports physical close to home and accept medical insurance. Walk in for same-day care or schedule an appointment online. To learn more about our sports physical services or other conditions we treat, contact our team directly at (425) 291-3300.