What happens after a telemedicine visit for Medial Epicondylitis (Golfer’s Elbow)

Audience: adult

After a telemedicine visit for medial epicondylitis, also known as golfer’s elbow, you will typically receive guidance on managing pain and improving arm function. Your healthcare provider may suggest rest, avoiding activities that strain your elbow, and using ice to reduce swelling. They might recommend over-the-counter pain relievers and specific exercises to stretch and strengthen the muscles around your elbow. Follow-up appointments may be scheduled to monitor your progress. If symptoms worsen or do not improve, your provider may advise in-person evaluation or additional treatments. Telemedicine allows you to get expert advice conveniently, but it cannot replace hands-on examinations or certain tests. Understanding what to expect after your visit helps you take active steps toward recovery and know when to seek further care.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Severe or increasing pain despite treatment — seek urgent medical evaluation.
• Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the hand or fingers — contact your healthcare provider immediately.
• Inability to move your elbow or arm normally — arrange for prompt in-person assessment.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial assessment of symptoms and history.
• Providing education on self-care and symptom management.
• Guiding through exercises and activity modifications.
• Monitoring progress through follow-up consultations.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical examinations requiring hands-on assessment.
• Ordering or interpreting imaging tests like X-rays or MRIs.
• Administering injections or physical therapies.
• Evaluating severe or worsening neurological symptoms.

Understanding Medial Epicondylitis

Medial epicondylitis, or golfer’s elbow, is a condition causing pain on the inner side of your elbow. It happens when the tendons that connect your forearm muscles to the elbow become irritated or inflamed. This often results from repetitive motions or overuse, especially in activities like golfing, throwing, or lifting.

What to Expect After Your Telemedicine Visit

Your healthcare provider will review your symptoms and may suggest ways to reduce pain and inflammation. This usually includes resting the affected arm, applying ice packs, and taking anti-inflammatory medications if appropriate. They might also guide you through gentle stretches and strengthening exercises to help your elbow heal.

Managing Symptoms at Home

To support recovery, avoid activities that cause elbow pain. Use ice packs for 15-20 minutes several times a day to reduce swelling. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen may help, but always follow the recommended doses. Performing prescribed exercises regularly can improve flexibility and strength.

When to Seek Further Care

If your pain worsens, you notice numbness or weakness in your hand or fingers, or if you cannot move your elbow normally, contact your healthcare provider promptly. These signs may require an in-person visit for a more detailed examination or imaging tests.

Follow-Up and Recovery

Your provider may schedule follow-up telemedicine appointments to check your progress. Recovery can take weeks to months depending on severity. Consistent care and avoiding strain on your elbow are key to healing.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Prepare a list of your symptoms, including when they started and what makes them better or worse.
• Have a list of current medications and any allergies ready.
• Ensure a stable internet connection and a quiet, well-lit space for your visit.
• Be ready to demonstrate your arm movements or areas of pain if requested.
• Have a notebook or device to record instructions and recommendations.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the care plan provided, including rest, ice application, and medication use as advised.
• Perform recommended exercises gently and consistently to improve strength and flexibility.
• Avoid activities that strain your elbow until cleared by your provider.
• Attend scheduled follow-up telemedicine visits to monitor healing.
• Contact your healthcare provider if symptoms worsen or new symptoms develop.

FAQs

Can I fully recover from medial epicondylitis with telemedicine care?

Many people recover well with proper self-care guided by telemedicine, including rest and exercises. However, some cases may require in-person treatments if symptoms persist or worsen.

What types of exercises might be recommended?

Your provider may suggest gentle stretching and strengthening exercises for the forearm muscles to reduce strain on the elbow tendons. Always perform exercises as instructed to avoid injury.

When should I stop using ice or pain relievers?

Ice is typically used during the first few days to reduce swelling. Pain relievers should be used as directed and stopped once pain is manageable without them. Discuss any concerns with your provider.

Is it safe to continue working or playing sports?

It’s important to avoid activities that worsen your pain. Your provider can help you decide when it’s safe to return to work or sports based on your recovery progress.

Can telemedicine diagnose medial epicondylitis accurately?

Telemedicine can often help identify symptoms consistent with medial epicondylitis, but some cases may require in-person examination or imaging for a definitive diagnosis.

Sources

1. Medial Epicondylitis (Golfer’s Elbow) — MedlinePlus | U.S. National Library of Medicine / National Institutes of Health.
2. Golfer's Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis) — Mayo Clinic.
3. Tendinitis and Bursitis — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
4. Medial Epicondylitis: Overview and Treatment — Merck Manuals: Consumer Version.

This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical care. Telemedicine guidance may not cover all aspects of your condition and is not a substitute for in-person evaluation when needed. Always follow your healthcare provider's instructions and seek urgent care if you experience severe symptoms or emergencies.