How to prepare for a video visit about Achilles Tendinitis (Mild)

Audience: pediatric

Achilles tendinitis is a common condition where the tendon connecting the calf muscles to the heel becomes irritated or inflamed, often causing pain and stiffness. In children and teens, mild Achilles tendinitis may develop from overuse during sports or physical activities. A video visit with a healthcare provider can help assess symptoms, provide advice on care, and guide recovery steps. During the visit, you may be asked about your child's pain, activity levels, and how the tendon moves. Preparing for the visit by gathering information and having a quiet space can make the appointment more effective. While telemedicine can support early care and education, severe symptoms or worsening pain may require in-person evaluation. This guide will help you prepare for a video visit about mild Achilles tendinitis in pediatric patients, understand what telemedicine can and cannot do, and know when to seek urgent care.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Sudden severe heel or calf pain with inability to walk — seek emergency care immediately.
• Noticeable swelling, redness, or warmth around the Achilles tendon — contact your healthcare provider promptly.
• Worsening pain or difficulty moving the foot despite home care — arrange for in-person evaluation soon.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial assessment of mild Achilles tendon pain and stiffness.
• Guidance on home care, rest, and gentle exercises.
• Monitoring symptom progress and answering questions.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Diagnosing severe tendon tears or ruptures requiring physical exam and imaging.
• Performing hands-on treatments or physical therapy.
• Managing complications like infections or severe swelling.

What is Achilles Tendinitis?

Achilles tendinitis happens when the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone, gets irritated or inflamed. This can cause pain, swelling, and stiffness, especially after activity. In children and teens, it often results from repetitive stress like running, jumping, or sports. Mild cases usually improve with rest and simple care.

Preparing for Your Video Visit

Before your video visit, find a quiet, well-lit space with good internet connection. Have your child's medical history ready, including any past injuries or treatments. Be prepared to describe symptoms clearly: when the pain started, what makes it better or worse, and how it affects daily activities. Wear comfortable clothing that allows easy viewing of the heel and calf during the video exam.

What to Expect During the Video Visit

The healthcare provider will ask questions about your child's symptoms and may guide you through simple movements to observe the tendon. They will look for signs of swelling, tenderness, or limited movement. Based on the findings, they may suggest home care steps, exercises, or recommend further evaluation if needed.

Home Care Tips for Mild Achilles Tendinitis

Most mild cases improve with rest and gentle care. This includes avoiding activities that cause pain, applying ice to reduce swelling, and gently stretching the calf muscles as advised. Over-the-counter pain relievers may be suggested. Follow the healthcare provider's instructions carefully and monitor your child's progress.

When to Seek In-Person Care

If your child experiences severe pain, sudden swelling, inability to walk, or if symptoms worsen despite home care, seek in-person medical attention promptly. These could be signs of a more serious injury requiring urgent evaluation.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Choose a quiet, well-lit room with a stable internet connection.
• Have your child's medical history and symptom details ready.
• Wear clothing that allows clear view of the heel and calf area.
• Prepare a list of questions or concerns to discuss.
• Ensure a device with a camera and microphone is charged and working.
• Have ice packs or pain relief medications on hand in case advised.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the healthcare provider's recommendations for rest and activity modification.
• Use ice and pain relief methods as instructed.
• Perform any suggested stretching or strengthening exercises gently.
• Monitor symptoms daily and note any changes.
• Schedule follow-up visits if recommended or if symptoms worsen.
• Seek in-person care if red flag symptoms appear.

FAQs

What causes Achilles tendinitis in children?

Achilles tendinitis often results from repetitive activities like running, jumping, or playing sports that strain the tendon. Growth spurts and improper footwear can also contribute.

Can mild Achilles tendinitis heal without medicine?

Yes, many mild cases improve with rest, ice, and gentle stretching. Over-the-counter pain relievers may help but are not always necessary.

How long does recovery usually take?

Recovery time varies but mild Achilles tendinitis often improves within a few weeks with proper care and activity modification.

Is it safe to do physical therapy through telemedicine?

Some guided exercises and therapy advice can be done via video visits, but hands-on treatments require in-person visits.

When should I worry and get urgent care?

Seek urgent care if your child has sudden severe pain, cannot walk, or if the area becomes very swollen, red, or warm.

Sources

1. Achilles Tendinitis — MedlinePlus | U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Achilles Tendon Injuries — Mayo Clinic.
3. Tendinitis and Bursitis — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
4. Pediatric Sports Injuries: Achilles Tendinitis — American Academy of Pediatrics.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If your child has severe symptoms or urgent concerns, seek immediate medical attention.