Very necessary! The state of South Carolina requires all student-athletes to pass a sports physical before they can participate in their specific sport. Additionally, a sports physical is typically valid for one calendar year.

Our AFC Urgent Care Easley team provides some more helpful info on sports physicals below, so read on!

Why Are Sports Physicals Necessary?

Sports physicals help you find out about and deal with health problems that might interfere with your child’s participation in a sport.

If your child has a past injury, poor heart health or allergies, sports may not be the right call for your aspiring student-athlete. To evaluate your child’s health, your healthcare provider will ask about your child’s past medical history and perform a physical exam. We’ve listed the common questions and order of a sports physical below.

Typical Components of a Sports Physical

• Height and weight will be recorded.
• The doctor will take note of blood pressure and heart rates.
• A simple vision test will be performed on your child.
• Primary and sensory organs will be evaluated, such as the lungs, ears, nose and throat.
• Lastly, your child’s joints, overall strength, flexibility and posture will be checked.

Are There Any Exceptions to Get Out of Needing a Sports Physical?

No. All student-athletes will need one before even hitting the practice field/court.

In addition to clearing your child for strenuous physical activity, sports physicals offer a great opportunity for kids and adults alike to catch up with a healthcare professional and make sure that immunizations, tests and health information are up to date. We’ve listed when your child should get a sports physical below.

When Your Child Should Get a Sports Physical

• At least six weeks before starting any new sport
• After an injury to assess your student athlete’s ability to rejoin the chosen sport

Our AFC Urgent Care Easley team provides sports physicals, so feel free to stop by today!