How to Prepare for a Video Visit About Knee Osteoarthritis (Stable Management)

Audience: pediatric

Knee osteoarthritis is a condition where the cartilage in the knee joint wears down, causing pain and stiffness. While it is more common in adults, children and teens can also experience knee joint issues that need careful management. A video visit with a healthcare provider can help you understand how to manage stable knee osteoarthritis safely at home. During the visit, you can discuss symptoms, daily activities, and ways to reduce pain. Preparing for the visit helps you get the most from your time with the doctor or nurse. This guide explains what to expect, how to prepare, and what to do after your telemedicine appointment. Remember, telemedicine is a helpful tool but not a replacement for in-person care when needed.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Sudden severe knee pain or swelling — seek immediate medical attention.
• Inability to move or bear weight on the knee — get emergency care.
• Signs of infection such as redness, warmth, fever, or pus around the knee — contact a healthcare provider urgently.

What telemedicine can do

• Discussing stable knee osteoarthritis symptoms and management.
• Demonstrating knee movement and function.
• Receiving advice on exercises and pain management.
• Reviewing medications and lifestyle changes.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Evaluating sudden or severe knee injuries.
• Performing hands-on physical examinations or imaging tests.
• Treating infections or emergencies.
• Diagnosing new or worsening joint conditions requiring urgent care.

What is Knee Osteoarthritis?

Knee osteoarthritis happens when the smooth cartilage that cushions the knee joint wears away. This can cause pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the knee. In children, joint problems may be due to injury or other conditions that affect cartilage health. Managing symptoms early can help keep the knee working well and reduce discomfort.

How Telemedicine Can Help

A video visit lets you talk with a healthcare provider from home. They can ask about your knee pain, watch how you move, and suggest exercises or treatments. They can also help you understand how to protect your knee and keep active safely. Telemedicine is good for regular check-ins and managing stable symptoms.

Preparing for Your Video Visit

Before your appointment, find a quiet place with good lighting and a strong internet connection. Have a list of your symptoms, questions, and any medicines you take. Wear comfortable clothes that allow easy movement of your knee. You may be asked to show your knee or demonstrate movements during the visit.

What to Expect During the Visit

Your healthcare provider will ask about your knee pain, stiffness, and how it affects your daily activities. They may guide you through simple movements to check your knee’s function. Together, you will discuss ways to manage symptoms, such as exercises, pain relief options, and lifestyle changes.

After Your Telemedicine Visit

Follow the advice given during your visit. This may include doing exercises, taking medicines as directed, or scheduling follow-up visits. If your symptoms change or worsen, contact your healthcare provider or seek in-person care promptly.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Choose a quiet, well-lit space with a stable internet connection.
• Wear comfortable clothing that allows easy knee movement.
• Prepare a list of symptoms, questions, and current medications.
• Have a family member or caregiver nearby if help is needed.
• Charge your device fully or keep it plugged in during the visit.
• Test your video and audio setup before the appointment.

After your tele-visit

• Follow prescribed exercises and medication instructions.
• Monitor your knee symptoms and note any changes.
• Schedule follow-up appointments as recommended.
• Seek in-person care if you experience any red-flag symptoms.
• Keep a diary of your knee pain and activity levels to discuss in future visits.

FAQs

Can children have knee osteoarthritis?

While knee osteoarthritis is more common in adults, children can have joint problems that affect cartilage and cause similar symptoms. These may be due to injury or other health conditions and require proper management.

What should I do if my knee pain gets worse after the video visit?

If your knee pain worsens, especially with swelling, redness, or difficulty moving, contact your healthcare provider promptly or seek in-person medical care.

Will the doctor be able to examine my knee properly through video?

The doctor can observe your knee movement and ask questions but cannot perform a hands-on exam or imaging tests via video. Sometimes, an in-person visit may be needed for a full assessment.

How can I manage knee osteoarthritis at home?

Managing knee osteoarthritis often includes gentle exercises, maintaining a healthy weight, using pain relief methods, and avoiding activities that strain the knee. Your healthcare provider can guide you on the best approach.

Is telemedicine safe for managing my knee condition?

Telemedicine is a safe and convenient way to manage stable knee osteoarthritis, especially for regular check-ins. However, it is not a substitute for emergency or in-person care when needed.

Sources

1. Osteoarthritis — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine / National Institutes of Health.
2. Osteoarthritis: Overview — Mayo Clinic.
3. Arthritis and Joint Pain — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
4. Telehealth: What You Need to Know — American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).

This telemedicine guide is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If you have concerns about your knee health or experience any urgent symptoms, please seek care from a healthcare professional in person.