Sports physicals provide a comprehensive assessment of a child’s overall health and physical condition. The goal of a sports physical is to ensure children can engage in sports safely. It's not about excluding children from participating, but rather identifying and addressing any health concerns to prevent potential injuries or complications.

If you’re the parent of a young athlete aspiring to participate in a physically strenuous sport, be sure to schedule a sports physical for them in addition to their regular checkup.

What Is a Sports Physical?

A sports physical, also known as a pre-participation physical examination (PPE) or sports clearance, is a thorough assessment of a child's overall health and fitness level. It’s different from a typical medical checkup as it focuses on and evaluates specific factors that relate to sports participation. Typically, sports physicals are required by schools, youth sports leagues and other organized sports programs before a child can join a team or begin training.

A standard sports physical consists of two main parts: a review of the child's medical history and a physical evaluation.

Medical History

The medical history part involves a comprehensive review of the child's past health conditions. The form will likely ask about:

• Illnesses the child might have like asthma and diabetes
• Past injuries like sprains, broken bones and concussion
• Previous hospitalizations and surgeries
• Any allergies
• Current and past medications
• Medical problems that run in the family
• Whether the child has ever fainted, felt dizzy or had trouble breathing during exercise

Physical Evaluation

The physical evaluation is usually carried out by a primary care physician or pediatrician. During the evaluation, the doctor examines various aspects of the child's physical health, including:

• Vital signs: The doctor will take measurements like blood pressure, heart rate and respiratory rate to assess the child's cardiovascular health.
• Vision and hearing: Clear vision and hearing are important for sports safety and performance. Any issues that could affect these senses should be identified.
• Musculoskeletal examination: The doctor will check the child's joints, muscles and flexibility to ensure they are physically capable of participating in sports activities without the risk of injury.
• Neurological evaluation: Reflexes, coordination and neurological function should be assessed to rule out any underlying conditions that might impact sports participation.
• Cardiovascular screening: An in-depth cardiovascular screening helps detect any potential heart conditions that might pose a risk during strenuous physical activity.

When and Where to Get a Sports Physical

The best time to schedule a sports physical is before the start of a new sports season or program. This ensures any health concerns can be addressed and managed before the child engages in physical activities.

Sports physicals can be obtained from various sources, including primary care physicians, pediatricians, school or sports clinics and even urgent care centers.

What If There’s a Problem?

Most children pass a sports physical without any issues. Even if a problem is identified, it doesn't necessarily mean that the child cannot participate in any sport whatsoever.  Depending on the nature and severity of the issue, the doctor might recommend one or more courses of action:

• Medication: If the child requires medication to manage a condition, the doctor will provide guidance on proper usage and dosage, ensuring the child can participate safely.
• Physical therapy: In cases where musculoskeletal issues are detected, a referral to a physical therapist might be made. Physical therapy can help improve strength, flexibility and overall physical function.
• Follow-up exams: For certain health concerns that are not immediate barriers to sports participation but require ongoing monitoring, the healthcare provider may schedule follow-up appointments to ensure the child's condition remains manageable.
• Specialist referral: In more complex cases, the doctor might refer the child to a specialist for further evaluation and treatment.

Schedule Your Child’s Sports Physical in Houston Today

Is your child looking to participate in a sport and needs to be cleared by a doctor? If you’re looking to schedule a sports physical, be sure to contact our medical team at St. Hope Pediatrics.



We offer a wide range of pediatric services, including sports participation physicals, to families in the Houston area.

Call (713) 778-1300 to book your appointment.