How to Prepare for a Video Visit About Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy (Mild) in Children

Audience: pediatric

Rotator cuff tendinopathy is a condition where the tendons around the shoulder become irritated or mildly injured. In children, this can happen due to overuse or injury during sports or play. A video visit with a healthcare provider can help understand the symptoms, suggest ways to reduce pain, and guide safe activities. During the visit, the doctor or nurse will ask about your child's shoulder pain, how it started, and any limits on movement. They may ask you to help your child show certain movements on camera. This helps them see how the shoulder works and decide if more tests or treatments are needed. Preparing for the visit by gathering information about your child's pain and activities can make the appointment smoother. Remember, mild cases often improve with rest and gentle exercises. If symptoms worsen or new problems develop, in-person care may be necessary.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Severe shoulder pain that suddenly worsens or does not improve with rest — seek urgent medical evaluation.
• Inability to move the shoulder or arm — get prompt in-person care.
• Signs of infection such as redness, warmth, swelling around the shoulder, or fever — seek immediate medical attention.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial assessment of mild shoulder pain and limited movement.
• Guidance on home care such as rest, ice, and gentle exercises.
• Advice on when to seek in-person care or further testing.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Severe shoulder injuries requiring physical examination or imaging.
• Signs of infection or severe inflammation needing urgent treatment.
• Cases needing surgical evaluation or emergency care.

What is Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy?

Rotator cuff tendinopathy happens when the tendons around the shoulder become irritated or mildly injured. These tendons help move and stabilize the shoulder. In children, this can occur from repetitive movements, sports, or a minor injury. Symptoms often include shoulder pain, especially when lifting the arm, and sometimes stiffness.

How a Video Visit Can Help

During a video visit, a healthcare provider can ask about your child's symptoms and watch how they move their shoulder. They may guide you to help your child perform simple movements to check for pain or limits. This helps the provider understand the problem and suggest ways to ease pain, such as rest, ice, or gentle exercises. They can also advise when to seek in-person care.

Preparing for Your Video Visit

Before the appointment, write down when the shoulder pain started and what activities make it better or worse. Have your child wear comfortable clothes that allow easy shoulder movement. Find a quiet, well-lit space with good internet so the provider can see the shoulder clearly. Have a family member help if needed to hold the camera or assist your child during movements.

What to Expect After the Visit

After the video visit, follow the advice given about rest, activity limits, and exercises. If prescribed, use ice or over-the-counter pain relief as directed. Watch for any changes in pain or movement. If symptoms do not improve or get worse, your provider may recommend an in-person visit for further evaluation.

When to Seek Immediate Care

If your child develops severe shoulder pain, swelling, redness, fever, or cannot move the arm at all, seek urgent medical care. These signs may mean a more serious problem that needs prompt attention.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Note when the shoulder pain began and any activities that affect it.
• Have your child wear loose clothing to allow shoulder movement.
• Set up a quiet, well-lit area with good internet connection for the video call.
• Have a family member ready to assist with camera handling and helping your child perform movements.
• Prepare a list of questions or concerns to discuss with the healthcare provider.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the provider's advice on rest and activity limits.
• Use ice packs or pain relievers as recommended to reduce discomfort.
• Encourage gentle shoulder exercises if advised to improve movement.
• Monitor your child's symptoms and note any changes.
• Schedule an in-person visit if symptoms worsen or new red flags appear.

FAQs

What causes rotator cuff tendinopathy in children?

It often happens due to repetitive shoulder movements during sports or play, or from a minor injury that irritates the tendons around the shoulder.

Can mild rotator cuff tendinopathy heal on its own?

Yes, with rest, avoiding activities that cause pain, and gentle exercises, many mild cases improve over time.

How can I help my child during the video visit?

Help your child perform simple shoulder movements as directed by the healthcare provider and ensure the camera shows the shoulder clearly.

When should I seek in-person care?

If your child has severe pain, cannot move the shoulder, shows signs of infection, or symptoms worsen despite home care, see a healthcare provider in person promptly.

Are there treatments besides rest and exercises?

Sometimes, healthcare providers may suggest physical therapy or pain relief medications. Serious cases may need further evaluation.

Sources

1. Rotator Cuff Injuries — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Shoulder Pain in Children — American Academy of Pediatrics.
3. Tendinitis and Tendinosis — Mayo Clinic.
4. Telemedicine: What You Need to Know — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If your child's symptoms are severe, worsening, or if you have any concerns, please seek care from a healthcare professional in person promptly.