Ready to Compete: 120+ Student-Athletes Receive Free Fall Sports Physicals with University Orthopedics

With primary care appointments increasingly difficult to secure in Rhode Island, more than 120 student-athletes received the physical examinations needed to participate in fall sports at University Orthopedics’ annual Free Fall Sports Pre-Participation Exam Clinic.

The clinic was held Saturday, August 1, at University Orthopedics’ Kettle Point location in East Providence. Students received comprehensive physical examinations at no cost.

Pre-participation exams are often required for school athletics and recreational sports programs, but families can have difficulty scheduling appointments—particularly during the busy back-to-school season.

“These days, it can be difficult to get an appointment with a primary care provider or pediatrician,” said Dr. Nicholas Lemme, an orthopedic sports medicine surgeon at University Orthopedics. Lemme was among more than 30 physicians, advanced practice providers, therapists and other team members who volunteered at the clinic.

“At University Orthopedics, we make the process as convenient as possible by offering a one-stop location where the entire family can come together, complete their sports physicals and get cleared so they can enjoy the season,” he said.

University Orthopedics has offered the free exam program for more than 25 years, helping thousands of young athletes obtain the medical clearance needed to participate in sports.

“An event of this size is only possible because of the incredible teamwork and dedication of our physicians, advanced practice providers and skilled therapists,” said Terry Moreno Toste, PT, program coordinator.

“Every year, we’re proud to come together to support local student-athletes and their families. We know this is an incredibly busy time of year, and by providing convenient, comprehensive sports physicals, we hope to help students start the season healthy, confident and ready to compete.”

University Orthopedics is the official orthopedic provider of the Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association, Providence Bruins, Newport Gulls and Brown University Athletics, as well as several other college and high school athletic programs throughout the region.

The practice includes more than 70 board-certified, fellowship-trained physicians and a team of physical therapists specializing in orthopedics and sports medicine, concussion therapy, dance rehabilitation, injury prevention and strength training, spine and scoliosis treatment, and athletic training for high school and collegiate athletes.