What Is Included in a Sports Physical?
A sports physical checks your child’s overall health and screens for concerns that could affect participation in physical activity. Each completed sports physical is valid for one calendar year. Many families choose to pair this visit with an annual wellness exam if it has been over a year since their child's last physical.
A sports physical includes a focused health assessment to confirm your child is ready for athletic participation. During the visit, your child may receive:
- Height, weight, and blood pressure checks
- Vision testing
- Hearing screening when age appropriate
- Review of medical history and current medications
- Vaccines if your child is not up to date
If vaccines are due, they can be ordered and given during the same visit, helping families avoid extra appointments.
What Happens During a Well-Child Visit?
A sports physical visit follows a clear, efficient flow so families know what to expect. Families leave with completed paperwork and a clear understanding of next steps, if any.
How to Prepare for Your Child’s Sports Physical
A little preparation helps the visit run smoothly. Writing down questions or concerns ahead of time can also be helpful, especially if your child has a medical condition or previous injury.
Families should bring:
Convenient Locations Across Greater Fayetteville
Sports physicals are available at all Rainbow Pediatrics locations, making it easy to find care close to home.
- Same-day appointments
- Online scheduling
- Saturday sick clinics
- Spanish-speaking staff
- TRICARE accepted
Frequently Asked Questions
Sports physicals focus on clearing your child for athletic participation. They do not replace a full annual wellness exam, which covers growth, development, and preventive care in more detail.
A completed sports physical is valid for one calendar year. Most schools and athletic programs require a new form each year.
Sports physicals are typically for school-aged children who plan to participate in organized sports or athletic programs.
Yes. If your child is due for vaccines, they can be reviewed, ordered, and given during the same visit to help keep everything up to date.
Bring any school or league sports physical forms that need to be completed. The provider will fill them out fully and sign them during the visit.
The provider will review your child’s history and make sure any conditions are well-managed for safe sports participation. Additional guidance or follow-up may be recommended if needed.
Yes. Booking early is encouraged, especially before the school year or sports season begins, to avoid last-minute delays.
Established patients can book online. New families can request an appointment to get started and choose a location that works best for them.