How to prepare for a video visit about Lumbar Radiculopathy - Triage

Audience: pediatric

Lumbar radiculopathy occurs when a nerve in the lower back is irritated or compressed, causing pain, numbness, or weakness that may spread down the leg. If your child has symptoms like back pain or leg weakness, a video visit with a healthcare provider can help determine if further care is needed. During the visit, the provider will ask about symptoms, medical history, and may guide you through simple physical checks. Preparing for the visit by gathering information and setting up a quiet space can help the appointment go smoothly. Telemedicine can help identify urgent issues and guide next steps but cannot replace in-person exams or imaging tests when needed. If your child has severe symptoms such as sudden weakness, loss of bladder or bowel control, or worsening pain, seek emergency care immediately. This guide helps families prepare for a video visit about lumbar radiculopathy in children, focusing on safe and effective communication with healthcare providers.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Sudden leg weakness or inability to walk — seek emergency care immediately.
• Loss of bladder or bowel control — go to the emergency room right away.
• Severe worsening back pain with fever — get urgent medical evaluation.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial symptom discussion and history taking.
• Guiding simple physical movements to assess nerve function.
• Providing advice on next steps and when to seek in-person care.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing detailed physical exams requiring touch.
• Ordering or interpreting imaging tests like MRI or X-rays.
• Providing emergency treatment or procedures.

What is Lumbar Radiculopathy?

Lumbar radiculopathy happens when nerves in the lower back get pinched or irritated. This can cause pain, tingling, numbness, or weakness that may travel down one or both legs. It is often caused by a slipped disc, injury, or inflammation. In children, it is less common but can still occur and affect daily activities.

What to Expect During the Video Visit

The healthcare provider will ask about your child's symptoms, such as when the pain started, where it hurts, and if there are any changes in feeling or strength. You may be asked to help your child perform simple movements or tests on camera to check how the nerves and muscles are working. The provider will decide if your child needs further tests or in-person care.

Preparing for the Video Visit

Before the visit, find a quiet, well-lit space with good internet connection. Have a list of your child's symptoms, any medicines they take, and past medical history ready. Wear comfortable clothing that allows easy movement for physical checks. Be ready to describe the pain and any changes you have noticed.

When to Seek Emergency Care

If your child experiences sudden weakness in the legs, loss of control over bladder or bowel, severe worsening pain, or fever with back pain, seek emergency medical care immediately. These signs may indicate serious problems that need urgent attention.

How Telemedicine Helps and Its Limits

Telemedicine allows healthcare providers to assess symptoms and guide families on next steps without leaving home. It can help decide if urgent care or tests are needed. However, it cannot perform hands-on exams, imaging, or procedures. In some cases, an in-person visit will be necessary for accurate diagnosis and treatment.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Choose a quiet, well-lit room with good internet connection.
• Have your child's medical history and list of symptoms ready.
• Ensure your child wears comfortable clothes for movement.
• Prepare a list of questions or concerns to discuss.
• Test your device's camera and microphone before the visit.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the healthcare provider's advice on symptom monitoring.
• Schedule any recommended in-person visits or tests.
• Keep track of any new or worsening symptoms.
• Use pain relief or other treatments as directed.
• Contact your provider if symptoms change or red flags appear.

FAQs

What causes lumbar radiculopathy in children?

Lumbar radiculopathy in children may be caused by injuries, slipped discs, infections, or inflammation affecting the nerves in the lower back. It is less common in children than adults but can still occur.

Can a video visit diagnose lumbar radiculopathy?

A video visit can help healthcare providers understand symptoms and decide if further tests or in-person exams are needed. It cannot definitively diagnose lumbar radiculopathy without physical exams and imaging.

What should I do if my child’s symptoms get worse after the video visit?

If your child's symptoms worsen, especially if they develop weakness, loss of bladder or bowel control, or severe pain, seek emergency medical care immediately. Otherwise, contact your healthcare provider for advice.

How can I help my child during the video visit?

You can assist by helping your child perform movements the provider requests, describing symptoms clearly, and ensuring a calm environment for the visit.

Sources

1. Lumbar Radiculopathy — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Low Back Pain in Children and Adolescents — American Academy of Pediatrics.
3. Telehealth: What You Need to Know — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
4. Lumbar Radiculopathy Clinical Overview — Mayo Clinic.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If your child has concerning symptoms, seek evaluation by a healthcare professional in person.