How to prepare for a video visit about Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome

Audience: pediatric

Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS) is a common cause of knee pain in children and teenagers. It often happens because of overuse, injury, or muscle imbalances around the knee. Preparing well for a video visit about PFPS can help your healthcare provider understand your child's symptoms and suggest ways to manage the pain. During the visit, you may be asked about when the pain started, what activities make it worse, and if there is any swelling or difficulty walking. You might also be guided through simple movements to show the knee's condition. This guide helps you get ready for the visit, explains what telemedicine can and cannot do for PFPS, and highlights important warning signs that need urgent care. Remember, telemedicine is a helpful tool but not a replacement for in-person exams when needed.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Severe knee pain that prevents walking or bearing weight — seek emergency care immediately.
• Sudden swelling or deformity of the knee — arrange urgent in-person evaluation.
• Redness, warmth, or fever with knee pain — possible infection needing prompt medical attention.

What telemedicine can do

• Discussing symptoms and history of knee pain.
• Guiding through simple knee movements to assess pain and function.
• Providing education on PFPS and home care strategies.
• Recommending exercises and pain management techniques.
• Determining if urgent in-person care is needed.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing hands-on physical examination or special tests.
• Ordering or interpreting imaging studies like X-rays or MRIs.
• Treating severe injuries, infections, or emergencies.
• Providing prescriptions requiring physical assessment.

What is Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome?

Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS) is pain around or behind the kneecap. It often happens in children and teens who are active in sports or physical activities. The pain usually comes from irritation of the tissues around the kneecap, especially when bending the knee, running, or climbing stairs.

Preparing for Your Video Visit

Before your video visit, gather information about your child's knee pain. Note when the pain started, what activities make it better or worse, and any other symptoms like swelling or clicking sounds. Have comfortable clothing ready so your child can move their knee during the visit. Make sure your device's camera works well and you have good lighting to show the knee clearly.

What to Expect During the Telemedicine Visit

The healthcare provider will ask questions about the knee pain and watch your child perform simple movements like bending and straightening the knee. They may look for signs of swelling, redness, or difficulty moving. Based on this, they will discuss ways to relieve pain and suggest exercises or treatments you can do at home.

When to Seek In-Person Care

If your child has severe knee pain, swelling, inability to walk, or signs of infection like redness and fever, it is important to get in-person medical care quickly. Telemedicine cannot replace a hands-on exam or imaging tests that might be needed in these cases.

Managing PFPS at Home

Most children with PFPS improve with rest, avoiding activities that cause pain, and doing recommended exercises to strengthen the muscles around the knee. Using ice on the knee and over-the-counter pain relievers may also help. Follow your healthcare provider's advice carefully.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Note when the knee pain started and what activities affect it.
• Observe and record any swelling, redness, or difficulty moving the knee.
• Ensure your device (phone, tablet, or computer) has a working camera and microphone.
• Find a well-lit, quiet space for the video visit.
• Have your child wear comfortable clothing that allows easy knee movement.
• Prepare a list of questions or concerns to discuss with the healthcare provider.
• Test your internet connection and video app before the appointment.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the healthcare provider's advice on rest, activity modification, and exercises.
• Use ice packs on the knee as recommended to reduce pain and swelling.
• Monitor symptoms and note any changes or new warning signs.
• Schedule follow-up visits as advised, either via telemedicine or in-person.
• Seek immediate care if red flags or worsening symptoms occur.

FAQs

What causes Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome in children?

PFPS often results from overuse, muscle imbalances, or improper movement patterns that put extra stress on the kneecap. Activities like running, jumping, or cycling may contribute.

Can a video visit diagnose PFPS?

A video visit can help your healthcare provider understand symptoms and suggest if PFPS is likely. However, some cases may need in-person exams or imaging to confirm the diagnosis.

What exercises can help with PFPS?

Exercises that strengthen the muscles around the knee and hip, improve flexibility, and correct movement patterns often help. Your provider may guide you on safe exercises during the visit.

When should my child avoid sports or physical activities?

If activities cause knee pain or swelling, it is usually best to rest and avoid those activities until symptoms improve. Follow your provider's advice on when to gradually return to sports.

Is PFPS a serious condition?

PFPS is usually not serious and often improves with proper care. However, ignoring symptoms or continuing painful activities may worsen the condition.

Sources

1. Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome: Clinical Review — National Library of Medicine.
3. Knee Pain in Children and Adolescents — American Academy of Pediatrics.
4. Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (Runner's Knee) — Mayo Clinic.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional in-person medical care, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have concerns about your child's health, please consult a healthcare provider directly.