Red flags & when to go in person for Knee Pain (Sprain/Strain) in Children

Audience: pediatric

Knee pain from a sprain or strain is common in children and usually improves with rest and simple care. However, some signs mean your child should be seen by a healthcare provider in person. These include severe pain, swelling, inability to walk, or if the knee looks deformed. Telemedicine can help assess mild symptoms and guide home care but cannot replace a physical exam when serious injury is suspected. Knowing when to seek in-person care helps keep your child safe and ensures proper treatment. This guide explains red flags, what telemedicine can and cannot do, and how to prepare for a virtual visit about knee pain in children.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Severe knee pain that does not improve with rest or pain relief — seek urgent in-person evaluation.
• Inability to walk or put weight on the affected leg — immediate medical attention needed.
• Visible deformity of the knee or signs of infection such as redness, warmth, or fever — go to a healthcare facility promptly.

What telemedicine can do

• Assessment of mild knee pain and swelling.
• Guidance on home care including rest, ice, and elevation.
• Advice on over-the-counter pain relief and activity modifications.
• Determining if in-person evaluation is necessary.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Physical examination requiring hands-on assessment.
• Imaging studies like X-rays or MRI.
• Treatment of severe injuries, fractures, or dislocations.
• Management of infections or emergencies requiring urgent care.

What is a Knee Sprain or Strain?

A knee sprain happens when the ligaments (the bands connecting bones) are stretched or torn. A strain involves muscles or tendons around the knee. Both can cause pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the knee. These injuries often happen during sports, play, or accidents.

Common Symptoms of Knee Sprains and Strains

Symptoms may include:

Most mild injuries improve with rest, ice, and gentle care at home.

Red Flags: When to Seek In-Person Care

Seek urgent medical care if your child has:

These signs may mean a serious injury or infection that needs prompt evaluation.

How Telemedicine Can Help

Telemedicine visits can help by:

However, a physical exam and imaging may be needed for serious injuries.

Preparing for a Telemedicine Visit

Before the visit:

This helps the healthcare provider understand your child’s condition better.

After the Telemedicine Visit

Follow the advice given, which may include:

Keep track of your child’s progress and contact a healthcare provider if concerns arise.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Have your child’s medical history and details of the injury ready.
• Note the time and cause of the knee pain.
• Prepare to show the knee on camera during the visit.
• List symptoms such as pain level, swelling, bruising, and mobility issues.
• Have a family member assist if your child is young or uncomfortable with technology.

After your tele-visit

• Follow home care instructions including rest and ice application.
• Use pain relief medications as advised.
• Monitor for any worsening symptoms or new red flags.
• Schedule an in-person visit if recommended by the provider.
• Keep a record of your child’s symptoms and progress to share if needed.

FAQs

Can telemedicine diagnose a serious knee injury in my child?

Telemedicine can help assess symptoms but cannot replace a physical exam or imaging needed to diagnose serious injuries. If red flags are present, an in-person visit is important.

What should I do if my child cannot walk after a knee injury?

If your child cannot walk or put weight on the leg, seek urgent in-person medical care as this may indicate a serious injury.

How can I help my child feel better at home after a mild knee sprain?

Rest the knee, apply ice for 15-20 minutes every few hours, keep the leg elevated, and use over-the-counter pain relievers as directed. Avoid activities that cause pain.

When should I call a healthcare provider after a telemedicine visit?

Contact a provider if your child’s pain worsens, swelling increases, new symptoms develop, or if advised during the telemedicine visit.

Is it safe to use telemedicine for knee pain in children?

Telemedicine is safe for initial assessment and guidance for mild symptoms but is not a substitute for in-person care when serious injury or complications are suspected.

Sources

1. Knee Sprain and Strain — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Knee Injuries in Children — American Academy of Pediatrics.
3. Sprains and Strains — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
4. Knee Pain — Mayo Clinic.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If your child shows any red flags or if symptoms worsen, seek prompt evaluation by a healthcare professional in person.