School & Sports Physicals in Cranberry Township
Fast, Thorough School and Sports Physicals for Student-Athletes
Whether your child is gearing up for fall sports tryouts or needs a physical on file before the school year begins, Falcon Urgent Care in Cranberry Township makes it easy to check this important box quickly and without the wait. Our board-certified physicians perform pre-participation physical examinations (PPEs) that meet Pennsylvania school and athletic requirements, so your student can get cleared and get back to what they love.
A sports or school physical isn't just a formality. It's an opportunity for a physician to assess your child's overall health, identify any conditions that could put them at risk during physical activity, and make sure they're starting the season in the best shape possible. At Falcon Urgent Care, we bring the same level of care and attention to physicals that we bring to every patient we see—no rushed visits, no corners cut.
No appointment is needed for most physicals, so walk in or schedule online today!
What's Included in a School or Sports Physical
What to Expect During Your Child's Physical Exam
A pre-participation physical examination (PPE) is a structured health evaluation designed to ensure your child is physically ready to participate in sports or school activities. Pennsylvania schools and athletic programs typically require an up-to-date physical on file before a student can join a team or program, and most physicals are valid for one calendar year, though some schools require a new physical before each sports season. Check with your child's school or athletic department for their specific requirements.
During a sports or school physical at Falcon Urgent Care, our physician will:
- Measure height and weight
- Check blood pressure and pulse
- Assess vision
- Examine the heart, lungs, abdomen, ears, nose, and throat
- Evaluate joints, strength, flexibility, and posture
- Review medical history, including any past injuries or chronic conditions
- Identify any conditions that could increase the risk of injury during physical activity
- Complete and sign the required school or athletic forms
If our physician identifies any concerns during the exam, they will discuss next steps with you and your child and may recommend follow-up with your primary care provider before clearance is given. Our goal is to make sure your student-athlete is safe, healthy, and ready to compete.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is a sports physical, and why does my child need one?
A sports physical, also called a pre-participation physical examination (PPE), is a health evaluation used to determine whether a student is physically fit to safely participate in a sport or athletic program. Most Pennsylvania schools and athletic associations require a current sports physical on file before a student can join a team. Beyond meeting this requirement, a sports physical is a valuable opportunity to catch any health concerns (such as heart conditions, musculoskeletal issues, or past injuries) before they become a problem during high-intensity activity.
What is the difference between a school physical and a sports physical?
A school physical is a general wellness exam required for school enrollment or grade-level health screenings. A sports physical is specifically focused on evaluating a student's readiness for athletic participation and includes a closer look at cardiovascular health, musculoskeletal fitness, and injury history. In many cases, a comprehensive school physical can satisfy the sports physical requirement as well, but it's always worth confirming with your child's school or coach before the visit.
How long is a sports physical valid?
In most cases, a sports physical is valid for one calendar year from the date of the exam. However, some schools or athletic programs require a new physical before each sports season. We recommend checking with your child's school or athletic director to confirm their specific requirements before scheduling the appointment.
Do I need to bring anything to my child's physical exam?
Yes—bringing the correct paperwork will help ensure your child can be cleared at the time of their visit. Most Pennsylvania schools provide a specific physical exam form that must be completed and signed by the examining physician. Bring that form with you, along with your child's insurance card and a list of any current medications or known medical conditions. If your child has a history of injuries, surgeries, or a chronic health condition, having relevant records on hand can be helpful.
How do I schedule a school or sports physical near me?
No appointment is needed at Falcon Urgent Care for most school and sports physicals. Simply walk in during our regular hours, Monday through Friday from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm, and Saturday and Sunday from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm. Online scheduling is also available if you prefer to reserve a specific time. We know back-to-school and sports seasons can get busy, so we make it as easy as possible to get your child seen and cleared quickly. We look forward to seeing you!
