How to prepare for a video visit about 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 movements or overuse of the forearm muscles. Preparing for a video visit about this condition can help you communicate your symptoms clearly and get the most from your telemedicine appointment. During the visit, your healthcare provider will ask about your symptoms, activities, and any treatments you have tried. They may guide you through simple movements to assess your elbow. While telemedicine is useful for initial evaluation and advice, some cases may require in-person examination or imaging tests. This guide helps you prepare for your video visit, understand what telemedicine can and cannot do for Golfer’s Elbow, and know when to seek urgent care.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Sudden severe elbow pain or inability to move the elbow — seek emergency care immediately.
• Numbness, tingling, or weakness in your hand or fingers — contact your healthcare provider promptly.
• Noticeable swelling, redness, or warmth around the elbow, which may indicate infection — seek urgent medical evaluation.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial assessment of symptoms and history related to Golfer’s Elbow.
• Guidance on home care, pain management, and activity modification.
• Monitoring progress and advising on when to seek in-person care.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical tests requiring hands-on examination.
• Ordering or interpreting imaging tests like X-rays or MRIs.
• Treating severe complications or surgical evaluation.

What is Medial Epicondylitis (Golfer’s Elbow)?

Medial Epicondylitis is an inflammation of the tendons that attach to the bony bump on the inside of your elbow. It often causes pain when bending the wrist or gripping objects. Activities like golfing, throwing, or repetitive wrist movements can contribute to this condition.

What to Expect During Your Video Visit

Your healthcare provider will ask about your symptoms, such as pain location, duration, and what activities make it worse. They may ask you to show your elbow on camera and perform simple movements to check your range of motion and pain points. Be ready to discuss any treatments or medications you have tried.

How to Prepare for Your Video Visit

Find a quiet, well-lit space with good internet connection. Wear clothing that allows easy access to your elbow. Have a list of your symptoms, questions, and any treatments you have used. If possible, have someone nearby to help with camera positioning or to assist during the exam.

When Telemedicine May Not Be Enough

If your pain is severe, worsening, or accompanied by numbness, weakness, or swelling, you may need an in-person evaluation. Imaging tests like X-rays or MRIs might be necessary to rule out other conditions. Telemedicine cannot perform these tests but can help decide if you need them.

Managing Golfer’s Elbow at Home

Your provider may suggest rest, ice, over-the-counter pain relievers, and gentle stretching exercises. Avoid activities that worsen your pain. Follow their advice carefully and report any changes during follow-up visits.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Choose a quiet, well-lit room with a stable internet connection.
• Wear short sleeves or clothing that exposes your elbow.
• Have a list of symptoms, including when they started and what makes them better or worse.
• Prepare questions or concerns you want to discuss.
• Have any previous medical records or imaging results available if possible.
• Ensure your device camera can show your elbow clearly during the visit.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the treatment advice given during your video visit.
• Rest and avoid activities that cause pain.
• Use ice or over-the-counter pain relievers as recommended.
• Perform any prescribed exercises or stretches gently.
• Schedule a follow-up appointment if symptoms do not improve or worsen.
• Seek in-person care if red-flag symptoms develop.

FAQs

What causes Medial Epicondylitis (Golfer’s Elbow)?

It is often caused by repetitive motions or overuse of the muscles and tendons in the forearm that attach to the inner elbow. Activities like golfing, throwing, or heavy lifting can contribute.

Can I treat Golfer’s Elbow at home?

Yes, many cases improve with rest, ice, avoiding painful activities, and gentle stretching. Over-the-counter pain relievers may help. However, follow your healthcare provider’s advice.

When should I see a doctor in person?

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

Will I need imaging tests?

Sometimes imaging like X-rays or MRIs are needed to rule out other problems. Your healthcare provider will advise if these tests are necessary after initial assessment.

Can telemedicine replace all care for Golfer’s Elbow?

Telemedicine is useful for initial evaluation and follow-up but cannot replace physical exams or procedures that require in-person visits.

Sources

1. Medial Epicondylitis (Golfer's Elbow) — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Golfer's Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis) — Mayo Clinic.
3. Tendinitis and Tendinosis — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
4. Medial Epicondylitis — Merck Manuals Consumer Version.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If you have serious symptoms or concerns, please seek immediate medical attention or consult a healthcare professional in person.