Student athletes push themselves to perform at their best—on the field, in the gym, and in the classroom. With that dedication comes the need for accessible, reliable medical care that keeps them healthy, safe, and performing at their highest level. For more than a decade, Advanced Urgent Care, a locally owned and operated medical provider, has supported families across the Denver metro area with high-quality injury & concussion care, illness treatment, and specialized evaluations for young athletes.
With multiple convenient locations in Aurora, Brighton, Broomfield, Northglenn, Thornton, and Westminster, our clinics offer a trusted alternative to the pediatrician or emergency room—especially when injuries happen after school, on weekends, or during high-intensity sports seasons. We accept most major insurance plans, including Medicaid, and we’re open seven days a week (Mon–Sat 8am–7pm; Sun 8am–6pm). Walk-ins are always welcome, or families can pre-register online for faster service.
Whether an athlete needs an X-ray, sutures, a sports physical, or a concussion evaluation, our experienced providers are equipped to diagnose, treat, and guide students safely back into play.
Why Accessible, Comprehensive Sports Medicine Matters for Student Athletes
Student athletes are at higher risk of injuries ranging from sprains and fractures to overuse injuries, asthma flare-ups, and head trauma. Because these injuries often happen outside traditional office hours, families need dependable care that fits busy schedules. Advanced Urgent Care provides:
Complete Injury Care
X-rays for diagnosis of fractures or joint injuries
Splinting and orthopedic referrals
Evaluation of sprains, strains, and sports-related musculoskeletal injuries
Sutures and wound care
Treatment for burns, bites, and lacerations
IV fluids for dehydration, heat exhaustion, and illness
Asthma and allergy care—common concerns for young athletes in Colorado’s active, outdoor environment
Illness Care for Student Athletes
During training seasons, illness can spread quickly among teams and classrooms. We offer:
Cold and flu treatment
Telehealth visits for patients of all ages
Blood draws and lab work when needed
School, Sports, and Camp Physicals
Many athletic programs require annual physicals, and we offer:
Sports physicals
Camp physicals
School physicals
These ensure athletes are healthy, cleared, and ready for participation. With weekend and evening availability, families can complete required paperwork without missing class or work.
Specialized Concussion Evaluation and Management
One of the most important services for student athletes—especially those in contact sports—is concussion care. At Advanced Urgent Care, our licensed medical providers offer comprehensive head-injury evaluations, treatment guidance, and written clearance for return to school and sports.
Understanding Concussions in Young Athletes
A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury caused by a blow, bump, or jolt to the head or body that disrupts normal brain function. Even mild concussions require medical evaluation because symptoms can last days, weeks, or longer without proper care.
Common signs and symptoms include:
Headache or pressure in the head
Dizziness or balance problems
Sensitivity to light or noise
Difficulty concentrating
Confusion or feeling “foggy”
Fatigue, irritability, or mood changes
Student athletes often try to “push through” symptoms, but early evaluation and rest are essential. Returning to activity too soon puts athletes at risk for prolonged recovery or, though rare, dangerous complications like Second Impact Syndrome.
Colorado’s Concussion Laws and Requirements
Colorado was one of the earliest adopters of formal concussion legislation with the Colorado Jake Snakenberg Youth Concussion Act. This law outlines strict safety measures designed to protect student athletes. Under the act:
- Any athlete suspected of having a concussion must be immediately removed from play.
Coaches and athletic staff are required to pull athletes from practice or competition if they show signs of a head injury. - The athlete cannot return to play on the same day.
If a concussion is suspected—even without a confirmed diagnosis—the athlete must sit out for the remainder of the day. - Medical clearance from a qualified healthcare provider is required before returning to play.
Only licensed professionals trained in concussion management can evaluate, diagnose, and give written clearance. Advanced Urgent Care providers meet this requirement. - Schools and youth sports organizations must provide annual concussion education to coaches.
These regulations help prevent repeated injuries and ensure athletes recover fully before resuming sports.
What to Expect During a Concussion Visit at Advanced Urgent Care
Our providers follow evidence-based protocols and Colorado law to keep athletes safe. During a concussion evaluation, families can expect:
A Comprehensive Head Injury Assessment
This includes:
Review of the injury mechanism
Neurological examination
Balance and coordination testing
Cognitive evaluation (memory, concentration, reaction time)
Symptom scoring
A Tailored Treatment Plan
Most concussions do not require imaging, but our clinics provide X-rays when needed to rule out more serious injuries such as skull fractures or neck injuries.
We also offer:
Symptom-management strategies
School accommodations (“Return-to-Learn” guidance)
Recommendations for physical and cognitive rest
Return-to-Learn Planning
Before returning to sports, students must first tolerate full school days without symptoms. We help create a phased plan that teachers and families can follow.
Return-to-Play (RTP) Clearance
Once symptoms improve, our providers can formally clear athletes and guide them through the CDC-based 6-Step Return-to-Play protocol, which includes:
Symptom-free at rest
Light aerobic activity (such as walking or stationary biking)
Moderate activity (jogging, moderate biking)
Heavy, non-contact activity (sprinting, high-intensity cardio)
Full-contact practice (only with clearance)
Return to competition
Athletes must complete each step without symptoms and may only advance under provider monitoring. If symptoms return, they must drop back a step.
Advanced Urgent Care providers are authorized to give the written clearance required by Colorado law to resume sports participation.
Why Families Choose Advanced Urgent Care
Parents, coaches, and school administrators rely on us because we provide:
Same-day access, even on evenings and weekends
Multiple Denver metro locations
Licensed, experienced medical providers
A friendly environment for athletes of all ages
Clear communication with families, coaches, and schools
Convenient online pre-registration at advurgent.com
Most importantly, we treat student athletes with the same urgency, compassion, and thoroughness we would want for our own families.
Keeping Colorado’s Student Athletes Safe, Healthy, and Active
From head injuries to sprains, illness, and school physicals, Advanced Urgent Care provides the comprehensive medical support young athletes need—all under one roof. Our team is proud to serve Colorado families with fast, reliable, and expert care so athletes can recover quickly, return to school safely, and get back to doing what they love.
Visit us at one of our Denver metro locations or text any clinic for more information.