Sports Physicals in Wheat Ridge, Colorado
A sports physical should be more than a signature. Done properly, it is the checkpoint that catches cardiac risk, unresolved injuries, and concussion history before the season starts.
What is a sports physical?
A sports physical (preparticipation evaluation) assesses whether an athlete can safely take part in their sport. Done well, it is more than a signature on a form — it is a chance to catch risks and answer real questions.
Why do athletes need a sports physical?
Most athletes pass without issue. The exam exists to catch the exceptions: cardiac risk factors, uncontrolled asthma, unresolved injuries, and concussion history that changes return-to-play decisions.
When should an athlete get a sports physical?
Schedule the physical ideally several weeks before the season starts, so any issue found has time to be addressed without missing the start.
How Ridgeview evaluates athletes for a sports physical in Wheat Ridge
Dr. Kroner has performed preparticipation evaluations from high school programs to elite athletes.
- Complete medical and family history, including cardiac history
- Review of previous injuries and whether they actually resolved
- Concussion history and its effect on return-to-play decisions
- Full musculoskeletal examination
- Vital signs and cardiac examination
- An in-office ECG for every patient 16 and older
- School and league form completion
Common signs + symptoms
A school or league form that needs completion
A new sport or higher level of competition
Prior injuries worth re-checking before the season
Family history of cardiac conditions
Questions about training, nutrition, or recovery
Related conditions
Treatment depends on what is actually causing the problem.
Depending on your diagnosis, treatment may include:
Clearance when the exam supports it — with forms completed on the spot
A concrete plan for any issue found, with time to fix it before the season
Rehabilitation guidance for unresolved injuries
Additional cardiac or specialist evaluation when history warrants it
Sports Physicals: Common Questions
Does my child need a sports physical to play high school sports?
Most Colorado high schools require a current pre-participation physical form before practice starts. Check with your school’s athletic office for the form and deadline, and bring it to the visit.
What happens during a sports physical?
A review of medical and family history, heart and concussion screening questions, vital signs, and an exam of the heart, lungs and musculoskeletal system, followed by the signed form.
Is a sports physical the same as an annual checkup?
No. A sports physical focuses on readiness to play, while an annual well visit covers broader health, vaccines and development. The two can often be combined.
Related reading: Concussion signs every Colorado parent should know
Medically reviewed by Christopher Kroner, MD, MPH, primary care and sports medicine physician. Last reviewed October 30, 2026.
Why Choose Ridgeview DPC for Sports Physicals?
A sports physical should be more than a rushed checklist — it’s a chance to catch a real issue before it becomes a problem on the field, and to actually get to know the athlete’s health history. At Ridgeview Direct Care, Dr. Kroner takes the time to do a thorough exam and have a real conversation about training load, prior injuries, and any concerns, rather than a five-minute signature. Membership means same-day and next-day appointments to fit around practice and game schedules, unhurried visits with no 15-minute limit, and direct text or call access to your doctor if something comes up. No insurance hassles, no surprise bills — just thorough, personal care that takes your athlete seriously.
Why Ridgeview
Diagnosis, treatment, and a safe return.
Dr. Kroner has performed preparticipation evaluations from high school programs to elite athletes. The visit is unhurried — enough time to actually review history, examine properly, and answer the athlete’s questions.
Get clarity on what’s causing it.
The first step is understanding what is happening and what your options are. Schedule an evaluation with Dr. Kroner at Ridgeview Direct Care.
Visit Ridgeview Direct Care
Ridgeview Direct Care
Address: 4045 Wadsworth Blvd Ste 300, Wheat Ridge, CO 80033
Phone: 720-807-9961