Do you need a sports physical in Montgomery County, Maryland? In 50 states (including Washington, DC), having a pre-participation physical examination is required by law. That means before joining a new sport and before the start of any competitive season, children and young adults are required to get a sports physical that clears them for athletic participation. At Fast Track Urgent Care, you can get a thorough and timely sports physical before starting a new athletic activity.

To schedule a sports physical in Silver Spring or Kensington, MD, contact us online or call 800-417-1164 today!

Why Is a Sports Physical so Important?

Are you looking for “sports physicals near me” in the Maryland area? There are a number of reasons why getting a sports physical is so important—and why they are often required by the state.

• General health and safety – Getting a sports physical in Montgomery County ensures that it is safe for the athlete to participate in a sport or other physical activity. The physical will include reviewing the family’s medical history, the athlete’s physical health (including previous hospitalizations or illnesses which could affect his or her ability to safely play a sport), and whether or not there are current health problems that could interfere with the athlete’s participation in a sport.
• Pre-existing conditions – During the sports physical, the doctors at Fast Track Urgent Care will also be able to address pre-existing conditions—such as asthma, sprains, etc.—as well as uncover any problems before they’re discovered (and potentially made worse) during the sport. When pre-existing conditions are discovered or brought up in the examination, the doctor can prescribe medication, or an improved medication, particularly for asthma.
• Training tips – In addition to clearing the athlete for physical activity and sports, your doctor can also provide training tips to reduce the likelihood of injury during sports. He or she can also help by giving advice about the best (and safest) sporting equipment to improve performance—such as high-quality running shoes.

What Happens During a Sports Physical?

When you get a sports physical in Montgomery County, your doctor will do the following:

• Review medical history
• Perform a physical examination
  • Record height and weight
  • Take blood pressure and pulse
  • Test vision
  • Check heart, lungs, abdomen, ears, nose, and throat
  • Test joints, strength, and flexibility
• Ask about the use of drugs, alcohol, and other dietary supplements

Following the examination, the doctor will either sign the OK for participating in sports or request a follow-up exam, additional testing, or specific treatment for a medical problem.

Do I Still Have to Get a Regular Check-Up?

An annual check-up, or medical physical, is still recommended—even if you have a sports physical done before starting a new activity. This is because a sports physical is different than a standard one. The sports physical focuses on your well-being as it relates to playing a sport. It’s more limited than a regular physical, but it’s a lot more specific about athletic issues.

During a regular physical, however, your doctor will address your overall well-being, which may include things that are unrelated to sports.

Thankfully, when you choose Fast Track Urgent Care, you can come in for your sports physical and your annual check-up whenever you have time. We are a walk-in clinic, so all of your medical issues are taken care of immediately on your time.

Schedule a Sports Physical in Silver Spring or Kensington, MD

In addition to providing excellent sports examinations, we can also do x-rays, help with sports injuries, and more.

When you need to get a sports physical in Montgomery County, contact Fast Track Urgent Care.