By Dr. Lyon of Orchid Health For The Mountain Times
Summer is here, which means many families are already planning for the upcoming school year — including fall sports. One essential step that often gets overlooked until the last minute is the sports physical.
As a family medicine provider at Orchid Health, I see firsthand how important it is for kids and teens to receive their annual physicals well before the school sports season begins. These exams aren’t just about checking a box — they’re about keeping young athletes safe, healthy, and ready to play.
Why Sports
Physicals Matter
Also called pre-participation physicals, these exams are required by most schools and athletic programs before students can join a team. But beyond the requirement, they’re a crucial opportunity to evaluate your child’s overall health and make sure their body is ready for the demands of sports.
During a sports physical, we’ll check in on:
Heart and lung function
Joint and muscle strength
Vision and reflexes
Injury history
Growth and development
Mental and emotional well-being
If your child has a chronic condition like asthma, diabetes, or ADHD, this is also a chance to update care plans and make sure they’re set up for a successful season.
Get Ahead
of the Rush
Every year, I see families scrambling to get last-minute appointments right before sports tryouts begin. Appointment slots can fill up quickly, and delaying might mean your child can’t start their season on time. I always recommend getting in early — ideally in late spring or early summer — so there’s plenty of time to address any issues or get follow-up care if needed.
No Cost for Students,
Minimal Hassle for Families
At Orchid Health, we offer no-cost sports physicals for students, and we can bill insurance if you’d like us to include a more comprehensive annual wellness exam. Either way, it’s an easy visit that gives you peace of mind — and helps us build a stronger, safer foundation for your child’s health.
Call Today
to Schedule
Our team is here to make the process simple and supportive. Whether your child is gearing up for soccer, football, cross-country, cheer, or another sport, we’re ready to help them hit the ground running.
Call us now at (971) 333-0494 to schedule your child’s sports physical before appointments fill up. Let’s work together to keep our student-athletes healthy, confident, and ready to thrive.