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

Audience: pediatric

After a telemedicine visit for medial epicondylitis, also known as golfer’s elbow, you will usually receive advice on how to care for the elbow at home. This condition causes pain on the inside of the elbow due to overuse or strain. The healthcare provider may suggest rest, ice, and gentle exercises to help reduce pain and improve healing. They might also recommend avoiding activities that worsen the pain for a while. Sometimes, they will guide you on using a brace or band to support the elbow. Follow-up visits may be scheduled to check progress. If symptoms get worse or new problems develop, you may need to see a healthcare provider in person for further evaluation. Remember, telemedicine can help guide you but is not a replacement for hands-on care when needed.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Increasing pain or swelling in the elbow despite home care — seek in-person evaluation promptly.
• Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the hand or fingers — this may indicate nerve involvement needing urgent care.
• Inability to bend or straighten the elbow — requires immediate medical attention.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial evaluation of elbow pain and symptoms.
• Providing advice on home care and activity modifications.
• Guiding gentle exercises and use of supportive devices.
• Scheduling follow-up to monitor progress.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical examination and specific tests requiring touch.
• Ordering or interpreting imaging studies like X-rays or MRIs.
• Treating severe or worsening symptoms needing urgent care.
• Administering injections or other in-person treatments.

Understanding Medial Epicondylitis (Golfer’s Elbow)

Medial epicondylitis is a condition where the tendons on the inside of the elbow become irritated or inflamed. It often happens because of repeated movements like throwing or gripping. Kids and teens who play sports or do activities that strain the elbow can develop this pain. The main symptom is pain or tenderness on the inside of the elbow that may get worse with certain movements.

What to Expect After Your Telemedicine Visit

Your healthcare provider will review your symptoms and may suggest ways to manage pain at home. This usually includes resting the elbow, applying ice packs, and avoiding activities that cause pain. They might teach you simple stretching or strengthening exercises to do safely. Sometimes, they will recommend using a special elbow band or brace to reduce strain. You may be asked to monitor your symptoms and report any changes.

When to Seek In-Person Care

If your pain gets worse, if you notice swelling, numbness, or weakness in your arm or hand, or if you cannot move your elbow, you should see a healthcare provider in person. These signs may mean the injury is more serious and needs a physical exam or imaging tests. Telemedicine cannot replace hands-on care for these situations.

How to Care for Your Elbow at Home

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Follow-Up and Monitoring

Your provider may schedule follow-up telemedicine visits to check how your elbow is healing. They will ask about your pain levels and function. If you are not improving or symptoms worsen, they might suggest an in-person visit for further tests or treatments.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Have a quiet, well-lit space for the telemedicine visit.
• Prepare to describe your symptoms clearly, including when pain started and what makes it better or worse.
• Have a family member or caregiver available to help if needed.
• Be ready to show the affected elbow on camera if requested.
• List any medications or treatments you have tried.
• Note any questions or concerns to discuss with the provider.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the home care instructions given by your provider.
• Use ice and rest the elbow as advised.
• Perform recommended exercises carefully and regularly.
• Avoid activities that cause pain until cleared by your provider.
• Monitor your symptoms daily and note any changes.
• Attend any scheduled follow-up telemedicine visits.
• Seek in-person care if red flag symptoms develop.

FAQs

Can I play sports while recovering from golfer’s elbow?

It is usually best to avoid sports or activities that cause pain until your elbow feels better. Your provider may guide you on when and how to gradually return to playing.

How long does it take to get better?

Recovery time varies but often takes several weeks to months. Following your provider’s advice on rest and exercises helps healing.

Are there medicines I can take for the pain?

Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen may help. Use them as directed by your healthcare provider.

Will I need surgery?

Most cases improve with home care and do not require surgery. Surgery is rare and only considered if symptoms persist despite treatment.

Can telemedicine replace all visits for this condition?

Telemedicine is helpful for initial advice and follow-up but cannot replace in-person care if your symptoms worsen or do not improve.

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 Tendon Injuries — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
4. Elbow Pain in Children and Adolescents — American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If you have concerns or worsening symptoms, please seek evaluation by a healthcare provider in person.