What happens during a sports physical?
A sports physical has two main parts: a health history and a physical exam. The history is the most important part, because it can reveal problems such as fainting during exercise or a family history of heart conditions.
- Questions about past illnesses, injuries, surgeries and medicines
- Questions about any chest pain, fainting or trouble breathing with exercise
- Family history of heart problems or sudden death at a young age
- Height, weight, blood pressure and pulse
- Heart and lung exam
- Vision check
- Joint, muscle and flexibility check
Why does a sports physical matter?
Most athletes are healthy, but a sports physical can find problems that make certain activities unsafe, or that need treatment first. It is also a good time to talk about preventing injuries, managing asthma during sports, concussion safety, and healthy eating for athletes.
Athletes should also know the warning signs to report right away, such as chest pain, fainting, a racing heartbeat or unusual shortness of breath during exercise. These are not normal, even in very fit athletes, and deserve a prompt checkup.
Is a sports physical the same as a yearly checkup?
Not quite. A sports physical focuses on whether it is safe to play. A yearly well-child or wellness exam covers more, including growth, development, vaccines, mental health and general health habits. When possible, it can be helpful to schedule both together. Ask us about doing them at the same visit.
Do adults need sports physicals?
Adults joining a league, starting a new training program, or returning to sports after a long break can benefit from a checkup too, especially if they have heart disease risk factors, joint problems or a long-term condition. Dr. Le can talk through how to get active safely and what to watch for. He can also help you build up activity gradually to lower your risk of injury.
What should I bring?
Bring the physical form from your school or team, with the history section filled out and signed by a parent or guardian if the athlete is under 18. Also bring glasses or contacts, a list of medicines, and any inhaler or other equipment the athlete uses. Families in Bluefield and the surrounding area can book ahead of the season to avoid a last-minute rush.
What to expect at your visit
- You hand us the school or team form.
- Dr. Le reviews the health history with the athlete and parent.
- The athlete gets a physical exam, including heart, lungs, vision and joints.
- Dr. Le talks through any concerns and completes the form.
Common questions about sports physicals
How long does a sports physical take?
Most sports physicals are fairly quick when the history section of the form is filled out ahead of time. If the doctor finds something that needs a closer look, the visit may take longer or a follow-up may be scheduled.
How often does my child need a sports physical?
Many schools and leagues require a new sports physical every year, but rules vary by state, school and sport. Check with your school or team for their requirements, and bring their form to your visit.
Can an athlete fail a sports physical?
Sometimes the doctor needs more information before clearing an athlete, such as a heart test or a visit with a specialist. This is uncommon. The goal is to keep athletes safe, and many issues can be treated so the athlete can still play.
Learn more from trusted sources
This page is general health information, not medical advice for your situation. Talk with Dr. Le about your own care.