School and Sports Physicals: Ensuring Safe Participation for Young Athletes
posted: Nov. 01, 2025.
For many children and teens, sports are more than just an activity—they’re a source of friendship, discipline, and confidence. But before the first whistle blows or the season kicks off, every young athlete should have a school or sports physical to ensure they’re healthy, prepared, and safe to participate. At the office of Dr. Julie Tomberlin and the providers in Mansfield, TX, our team provides comprehensive physical exams to support the health and performance of active students.
Why Sports Physicals Matter
A sports physical—also known as a pre-participation physical examination (PPE)—is an important step in protecting young athletes. It helps identify potential health issues that could interfere with physical activity or increase the risk of injury.
During a sports physical, Dr. Tomberlin and her team of excellent nurse practitioners evaluate:
- Overall health and growth patterns
- Heart and lung function
- Joint flexibility, muscle strength, and posture
- Previous injuries or symptoms that might affect participation
- Family medical history, including cardiac or respiratory concerns
This evaluation helps ensure that each child can safely engage in sports while reducing the risk of avoidable complications during play or training.
School Physicals: A Broader Health Check
School physicals go beyond sports readiness—they support a child’s overall well-being and academic success. These annual exams track growth, developmental milestones, and vaccination schedules while addressing concerns such as sleep, nutrition, or mental health.
For children and teens, regular school physicals can also establish a baseline for long-term health. They provide parents with valuable insights into their child’s physical and emotional development while creating an opportunity to discuss concerns with Dr. Julie Tomberlin and the providers.
Preparing for a School or Sports Physical
Parents and guardians can help make the process smooth by:
- Bringing a completed medical history form and any required school or sports paperwork
- Listing current medications and supplements
- Sharing details about past injuries, surgeries, or illnesses
- Mentioning any new or recurring symptoms, such as shortness of breath or chest discomfort during activity
At Dr. Tomberlin and her team of excellent nurse practitioners, we take time to discuss findings, answer questions, and provide recommendations to keep your child healthy throughout the year.
The Importance of Ongoing Care
Even after a sports physical, it’s important for young athletes to maintain open communication with their healthcare team. If pain, fatigue, or injuries arise, early evaluation can prevent more serious conditions from developing. Regular follow-ups also help ensure proper healing and continued performance for growing bodies.
Schedule a School or Sports Physical in Mansfield, TX
At Dr. Julie Tomberlin and the providers, we’re dedicated to helping children and teens stay safe, healthy, and ready to succeed—both on and off the field. With a compassionate team and years of pediatric experience, we provide the thorough, attentive care every young athlete deserves.
Serving Mansfield, TX
(682) 518-8111
Contact our office today to schedule your child’s school or sports physical and make sure they’re cleared for a healthy, confident start to the season.