What happens after a telemedicine visit for Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome

Audience: pediatric

Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS) is a common cause of knee pain in children and teenagers. After a telemedicine visit, your healthcare provider will usually explain the likely cause of the pain and suggest ways to help it get better. This often includes exercises to strengthen the muscles around the knee and advice on how to avoid activities that make the pain worse. You may be given tips on using ice or over-the-counter pain relievers safely. Follow-up visits, either by telemedicine or in person, might be recommended to check how the knee is healing. If symptoms do not improve or worsen, your provider may suggest further tests or in-person care. Remember, telemedicine is a helpful way to get advice quickly but is not a replacement for an in-person exam when needed. Always tell your provider about any new or severe symptoms.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Severe knee pain that does not improve with rest or over-the-counter pain relievers — seek in-person medical evaluation promptly.
• Swelling, redness, warmth, or fever around the knee — these may be signs of infection or inflammation requiring urgent care.
• Inability to bend or straighten the knee or walk without significant pain — immediate medical attention is needed.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial assessment of knee pain symptoms and history.
• Guidance on home care, exercises, and pain management.
• Monitoring progress and advising on activity modifications.
• Determining if in-person evaluation is necessary.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing hands-on physical examination or special tests.
• Ordering or interpreting imaging studies like X-rays or MRIs.
• Treating severe or worsening symptoms that require urgent care.
• Diagnosing complex or rare knee conditions without physical exam.

Understanding Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome

Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS) causes pain around or behind the kneecap. It often happens in active children and teens, especially those who run or jump a lot. The pain usually comes from irritation of the tissues around the kneecap due to muscle imbalances or overuse. PFPS is not caused by a serious injury but can still affect daily activities and sports.

What to Expect After Your Telemedicine Visit

During your telemedicine visit, the healthcare provider will ask about your knee pain, activities, and any injuries. They may watch you move your leg on camera to understand the problem better. After the visit, you will likely receive advice on how to care for your knee at home. This may include rest, ice, gentle stretching, and specific exercises to strengthen muscles that support the knee. Your provider may also suggest ways to avoid pain triggers and improve your posture or walking style.

When to Seek In-Person Care

If your knee pain gets worse, or you notice swelling, redness, or difficulty moving the knee, you should see a healthcare provider in person. Also, if the pain does not improve after several weeks of home care, further tests like X-rays or physical exams may be needed. In-person visits allow doctors to perform hands-on examinations and possibly imaging to rule out other causes.

Managing Pain and Activity

You can often manage PFPS pain with simple steps at home. Applying ice to the knee for 15-20 minutes after activity can reduce pain and swelling. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen may help but should be used as directed. Avoid activities that cause sharp or increased pain, and try low-impact exercises like swimming or cycling. Gradually return to normal activities as your knee feels better.

Follow-Up and Monitoring Progress

Your healthcare provider may schedule follow-up telemedicine visits to check on your progress. During these visits, they will ask about your pain levels and how well you are doing the exercises. If you are improving, they may adjust your care plan. If not, they might recommend seeing a specialist or physical therapist for more personalized treatment.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Have a list of your symptoms ready, including when the pain started and what makes it better or worse.
• Prepare to show your knee on camera and demonstrate movements if asked.
• Have any previous medical records or imaging related to your knee pain available.
• Find a quiet, well-lit place for your telemedicine visit.
• Write down any questions or concerns you want to discuss with the provider.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the exercise and activity advice given by your healthcare provider.
• Use ice and over-the-counter pain relievers as recommended.
• Avoid activities that increase your knee pain until it improves.
• Attend any scheduled follow-up telemedicine or in-person visits.
• Contact your healthcare provider if your symptoms worsen or new symptoms appear.

FAQs

What causes Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome in children?

PFPS often happens due to overuse, muscle imbalances, or poor knee alignment during activities like running or jumping. Growth spurts can also affect knee mechanics, leading to pain.

Can telemedicine visits help treat knee pain?

Yes, telemedicine can help assess your symptoms, provide advice on exercises and pain management, and decide if you need in-person care. However, some cases require physical exams or imaging that need an in-person visit.

How long does it take for PFPS to get better?

With proper care, PFPS often improves within a few weeks to months. Following your provider’s advice on exercises and activity changes can speed recovery.

When should I see a doctor in person?

If your knee pain is severe, does not improve with home care, causes swelling or redness, or limits your ability to move or walk, you should see a healthcare provider in person promptly.

Are there exercises I can do at home?

Yes, your provider may recommend gentle stretching and strengthening exercises for the muscles around the knee and thigh. These help support the kneecap and reduce pain.

Sources

1. Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (Runner’s Knee) — Mayo Clinic.
3. Knee Pain in Children and Adolescents — American Academy of Pediatrics.
4. Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome — 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 concerns about your health or symptoms worsen, please seek care from a healthcare professional in person.