If your child is gearing up for the new sports season, a sports physical is likely on your to-do list. At Innovative Urgent Care in Damascus, MD, we offer convenient, walk-in sports physical exams to help your child meet school or league requirements—and to keep them safe and healthy while playing.
This post explains what a sports physical includes, when to schedule one, and why it matters for your child’s well-being.
What Is a Sports Physical?
A sports physical, also known as a preparticipation physical evaluation (PPE), is a medical exam designed to determine whether it’s safe for your child to participate in organized sports. Unlike an annual wellness visit, a sports physical focuses specifically on the physical demands of athletic activity.
Many school districts and sports leagues in Maryland require this type of physical before a student can join a team.
Why Are Sports Physicals Important?
The purpose of a sports physical exam is to:
- Identify health conditions like asthma, heart issues, or prior injuries
- Ensure recovery from previous injuries (e.g., sprains, concussions)
- Prevent future sports-related injuries
- Promote safe participation in physical activities
What Happens During a Sports Physical?
At Innovative Urgent Care, our providers perform a thorough, efficient sports physical that includes:
1. Medical History Review
We’ll review your child’s:
- Past illnesses or hospitalizations
- Allergies and medications
- Family history of heart problems or sudden death
- History of concussions or orthopedic injuries
2. Physical Examination
We check:
- Height, weight, and vital signs
- Vision
- Heart and lungs
- Abdomen
- Joints, muscles, and flexibility
Our goal is to ensure your child is physically ready to handle the demands of their sport safely.
When Should You Get a Sports Physical?
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends scheduling the sports physical at least 6 weeks before the season starts. This gives enough time to manage any issues that come up. (https://www.aap.org/en/patient-care/preparticipation-physical-evaluation/?srsltid=AfmBOooxcYbYdtDmOhjaeBnecvQxV3QXqk5jhlBx1KngAZzPl261256Q&utm)
Some schools and programs in Montgomery County, MD may accept a sports physical up to one year old, while others require it annually or before each season.
Why Choose Innovative Urgent Care for Sports Physicals?
At Innovative Urgent Care in Damascus, MD, we make it easy to check this requirement off your list:
- Walk-ins welcome—no appointment necessary
- Quick, same-day service
- On-site providers with extensive experience in pediatric and adolescent care
- Convenient location in Damascus near Clarksburg, Germantown, and Mount Airy
We’ll complete your child’s sports physical form during your visit and can coordinate with your primary care provider if needed.
Visit Us for a Sports Physical Today
If you’re searching for “sports physical near me” or “urgent care for sports physicals in Damascus, MD,” you’ve come to the right place.
Stop by Innovative Urgent Care for a fast, professional, and thorough sports physical—no appointment needed.
