Sports Physicals

At Thompson River Pediatrics, we perform sports physicals as part of a yearly comprehensive well-child checkup.

In the state of Colorado, your child's Sports physical form will be valid for 365 days from their last well-child check, therefore, it is important to make sure their next well check is scheduled in a timely fashion to avoid a lapse in eligibility.

If your child is interested in participating in middle school or high school sports, the following parts of the sports physical will be addressed during their well check appointment.

  • Ensure your child is prepared for vigorous physical activity
  • Gather information on your child’s health and development
  • Watch for potential warning signs of serious illness
  • Identify possible risk factors with a certain sport
  • Receive advice on avoiding injuries


Regular physicals are an important part of preventative pediatric care. Getting your child a sports physical gives the doctor the opportunity to examine your child, evaluate their health and fitness, and determine whether or not they are prepared for sports or school activities.

Annual physicals however, even when not required by a certain organization, should be a part of your child’s ongoing healthcare because they also provide an important opportunity to discuss your child’s development and any concerns you may have.

Sports Physical FAQs

  • What is a sports physical?

    Every child or teen in Colorado who wants to play in a sport must have a sports physical or a preparticipation physical examination. The purpose of a sports physical is to be sure your child can safely participate in sports. Suddenly starting high-intensity workouts and engaging in competitive sports can quickly aggravate a pre-existing problem or lead to a preventable injury when an exam discovers potential problems.


    Although a sports physical may find a problem that prevents your child from participating, in most cases, the examination results guide decisions and determines if your child needs extra training to get in shape to safely participate.


    If your child needs any type of physical, call our office to schedule a well-child check. If your child is already up to date on well child checks, we can provide you with a form at any time either through a request through the portal or by calling our receptionists.