Sports Physicals

Playing sports is a great way to stay fit and socialize, but it’s important to get a sports physical before starting to reduce risk of injury. At Low Cost Health Clinics, with seven offices in Anaheim, Riverside, Santa Ana, Corona, Costa Mesa, Cathedral City, and Indio, California, the patient-centered medical providers offer sports physicals for all ages, including children and teens. The family practice and urgent care clinic also has bilingual staff who speak English and Spanish at all locations. Call or schedule your sports physical using the online booking tool today.

Why are sports physicals important?

Sports physicals are important because they help prevent sports injuries. Exercise is good for your health, helping you manage your weight and improving heart, lung, and muscle function. But the extra stress you place on your body puts you at risk of injury.

Anyone wanting to start a new sport or an exercise program should first have a sports physical to make sure they can safely participate. Most organized sports teams require sports physicals before allowing you to play. 

Sports physicals are especially important for children and teens who want to play sports because they’re at even greater risk of injury.

My child wants to play soccer. When do I schedule a sports physical?

Low Cost Health Clinics recommends scheduling your child’s sports physical at least six weeks before they start practice. Scheduling the physical early gives your provider a chance to properly address any problems that may affect your child’s ability to safely play.

If you know your child wants to play sports during the year, your provider at Low Cost Health Clinics can combine the sports physical with their annual physical to save you an extra visit to the office.

What happens during sports physicals?

Sports physicals at Low Cost Health Clinics are comprehensive. The patient-based practice wants nothing more than for you or your child to safely play their sport without getting hurt.

Your provider reviews medical history and concerns. They also ask about previous sports injuries and then perform a physical exam, paying close attention to the heart and lungs, as well as the joints and muscles. They also check vision and hearing. 

Low Cost Health Clinics is a full-service family practice and urgent care clinic and performs many of the tests necessary for the sports physical at the office, such as bloodwork, urinalysis, and electrocardiogram (EKG) to assess heart health.

Your provider at Low Cost Health Clinics talks to you about their findings and makes recommendations that can protect you or your child from injuries while playing the sport. That might include using special equipment, making sure to take rest days, eating a balanced diet, and drinking fluids to stay hydrated.

Don’t wait to schedule sports physicals. Call Low Cost Health Clinics or use the online scheduling tool to make an appointment today.