Can telemedicine treat Medial Epicondylitis (Golfer’s Elbow)?

Audience: adult

Medial Epicondylitis, commonly known as Golfer’s Elbow, is a condition that causes pain and tenderness on the inner side of the elbow. It often results from repetitive motions that strain the tendons connecting the forearm muscles to the elbow. Telemedicine can be a helpful way to learn about this condition, discuss symptoms, and get advice on managing pain and improving function. Through video or phone visits, healthcare providers can guide you on exercises, activity modifications, and when to seek further care. However, some cases may require in-person evaluation, especially if symptoms worsen or do not improve with initial care. Telemedicine is a useful tool for education and early management but is not a substitute for hands-on examination or emergency treatment.

Red flags — go in person / ER

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

What telemedicine can do

• Initial symptom assessment and education about Golfer’s Elbow.
• Guidance on home care, including rest, ice, and exercises.
• Monitoring progress and adjusting recommendations remotely.
• Discussing when to seek in-person care.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical tests that require hands-on examination.
• Imaging studies such as X-rays or MRIs.
• Administering injections or other in-person treatments.
• Evaluating severe complications or emergencies.

What is Medial Epicondylitis (Golfer’s Elbow)?

Medial Epicondylitis is a condition where the tendons on the inside of your elbow become inflamed or damaged. This usually happens because of repeated stress or overuse, especially from activities like golfing, throwing, or lifting. Symptoms typically include pain and tenderness on the inner elbow, which may worsen with wrist or hand movements.

How Telemedicine Can Help

Through telemedicine, you can describe your symptoms and show your elbow during a video call. A healthcare provider can assess your condition, suggest rest and pain relief methods, recommend exercises to stretch and strengthen your forearm muscles, and advise on ways to avoid further strain. Telemedicine visits can also help monitor your progress and adjust care plans as needed.

When In-Person Care is Needed

Some situations require a physical exam or tests that cannot be done remotely. If your pain is severe, if you notice numbness, weakness, or swelling, or if symptoms do not improve with home care, you may need to see a healthcare provider in person. In-person visits can include imaging tests or treatments like physical therapy or injections.

Managing Medial Epicondylitis at Home

You can often manage symptoms by resting the affected arm, applying ice to reduce pain, and avoiding activities that trigger discomfort. Gentle stretching and strengthening exercises may be recommended. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help, but it’s important to follow your provider’s advice on medication use.

Benefits and Limits of Telemedicine for This Condition

Telemedicine offers convenient access to healthcare advice without travel. It is especially useful for initial evaluation and ongoing support. However, it cannot replace hands-on physical exams or procedures. If your condition is complex or worsening, timely in-person care is important.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Have a list of your symptoms, including when they started and what makes them better or worse.
• Prepare to show your elbow and demonstrate movements on video if possible.
• List any treatments or medications you are currently using.
• Have a quiet, well-lit space for the telemedicine visit.
• Write down any questions or concerns you want to discuss.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the care plan and exercise recommendations provided by your healthcare provider.
• Use pain relief methods as advised, such as ice or over-the-counter medications.
• Monitor your symptoms and note any changes or new symptoms.
• Schedule follow-up telemedicine or in-person visits as recommended.
• Seek urgent care if you notice any red flag symptoms.

FAQs

Can telemedicine diagnose Golfer’s Elbow?

Telemedicine can help healthcare providers evaluate your symptoms and suggest a likely diagnosis based on your history and visual exam. However, a definitive diagnosis may sometimes require an in-person physical exam or imaging tests.

What treatments can I get through telemedicine for Golfer’s Elbow?

You can receive advice on home care, including rest, ice, exercises, and pain relief. Providers can guide you on modifying activities to reduce strain. Some treatments, like injections, require in-person visits.

When should I see a doctor in person?

If your pain is severe or worsening, if you have numbness or weakness, or if you develop swelling or signs of infection, you should seek in-person medical care promptly.

Are exercises safe to do without in-person supervision?

Many gentle stretching and strengthening exercises can be safely done at home with proper instructions from your healthcare provider via telemedicine. If you experience increased pain, stop and consult your provider.

Can Golfer’s Elbow heal on its own?

With proper rest and care, many people improve over weeks to months. Telemedicine can support you in managing symptoms and tracking recovery.

Sources

1. Medial Epicondylitis (Golfer’s Elbow) — MedlinePlus | U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Golfer’s Elbow — Mayo Clinic.
3. Tendinitis and Tendinosis — National Library of Medicine.
4. Telehealth: Delivering Care Safely During COVID-19 — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical evaluation, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have concerns about your health or experience any red flag symptoms, please seek prompt medical care.