What happens after a telemedicine visit for Lateral Epicondylitis (Tennis Elbow)

Audience: pediatric

After a telemedicine visit for lateral epicondylitis, also known as tennis elbow, your healthcare provider will usually give advice on how to reduce pain and help the elbow heal. This condition causes pain on the outside of the elbow due to overuse of the forearm muscles. Treatment often includes resting the arm, avoiding activities that cause pain, and using ice to reduce swelling. Your provider may suggest exercises to gently stretch and strengthen the muscles once pain decreases. Sometimes, over-the-counter pain medicines may be recommended to help manage discomfort. Follow-up visits may be scheduled to check progress and adjust care. If symptoms worsen or new problems develop, your provider will guide you on when to seek in-person care. Remember, telemedicine can help you understand your condition and manage it safely, but it cannot replace hands-on exams or urgent treatments when needed.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Severe or worsening pain that limits movement — seek urgent medical care.
• Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the hand or fingers — see a healthcare provider promptly.
• Swelling, redness, or warmth around the elbow that may indicate infection — get immediate medical attention.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial assessment of symptoms and history.
• Providing education on condition and self-care.
• Guiding safe home exercises and pain management.
• Monitoring progress through follow-up visits.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical examination requiring hands-on assessment.
• Administering injections or other in-clinic treatments.
• Ordering or performing imaging tests directly.
• Evaluating severe complications or emergencies.

What is Lateral Epicondylitis (Tennis Elbow)?

Lateral epicondylitis, often called tennis elbow, is a condition where the outer part of the elbow becomes sore and tender. It happens when the muscles and tendons around the elbow are used too much or strained. This can cause pain when moving the wrist or lifting objects.

What to Expect After Your Telemedicine Visit

Your healthcare provider will review your symptoms and may suggest ways to ease pain and help your elbow heal. This usually includes resting the arm, applying ice, and avoiding activities that cause pain. You might get instructions for gentle exercises to do at home. Sometimes, medicines to reduce pain and swelling are recommended. Your provider may also schedule follow-up visits to see how you are doing.

How to Care for Your Elbow at Home

\1

When to Seek In-Person Medical Care

If you notice increased pain, swelling, redness, or difficulty moving your elbow or fingers, seek medical care promptly. Also, if you develop numbness, weakness, or your symptoms do not improve with home care, an in-person evaluation may be necessary.

Benefits and Limits of Telemedicine for Tennis Elbow

Telemedicine allows you to talk with a healthcare provider from home. It is helpful for discussing symptoms, getting advice, and learning how to care for your elbow. However, some tests and treatments require an in-person visit. If your condition is severe or not improving, your provider will guide you to get hands-on care.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Have a list of your symptoms ready, including when they started and what makes them better or worse.
• Prepare to show your elbow to the camera if possible and safe.
• Write down any questions or concerns you want to discuss.
• Have a list of current medications and any previous treatments for your elbow.
• Ensure a quiet and well-lit space for the telemedicine visit.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the provider’s advice on rest and activity modification.
• Apply ice to the elbow as instructed to reduce pain and swelling.
• Take any recommended medications carefully and as directed.
• Perform prescribed exercises gently and regularly.
• Schedule and attend any follow-up telemedicine or in-person visits.
• Contact your healthcare provider if symptoms worsen or new symptoms appear.

FAQs

Can tennis elbow heal on its own?

Yes, tennis elbow often improves with rest and proper care over weeks to months. Following your provider's advice can help speed recovery.

Are exercises important after a telemedicine visit?

Yes, gentle stretching and strengthening exercises can help improve flexibility and strength, reducing pain and preventing future injury.

When should I stop using ice on my elbow?

Ice is usually recommended during the first few days or when pain flares up. Avoid applying ice directly on skin and limit sessions to 15-20 minutes.

Can I play sports again after tennis elbow?

You can return to sports gradually once pain decreases and strength improves. Your provider can guide you on safe timing and techniques.

Is surgery needed for tennis elbow?

Most cases do not require surgery and improve with non-surgical care. Surgery is rarely needed and considered only if symptoms persist despite treatment.

Sources

1. Tennis Elbow — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Lateral Epicondylitis (Tennis Elbow) — Mayo Clinic.
3. Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis) — National Library of Medicine.
4. Tennis Elbow — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Telemedicine can help guide care but is not a substitute for in-person evaluation when needed.