How to prepare for a video visit about Shoulder Pain (Strain/Tendinitis)

Audience: adult

Shoulder pain caused by strain or tendinitis is a common problem that can affect your daily activities. Preparing well for a video visit with your healthcare provider can help you get the most out of your appointment. During the visit, you can discuss your symptoms, show your shoulder movements, and get advice on managing pain and improving function. Telemedicine allows you to connect with your provider safely and conveniently from home. However, some serious symptoms may require in-person care. This guide helps you prepare for your video visit, understand what telemedicine can and cannot do for shoulder pain, and know when to seek urgent medical help.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Sudden inability to move your shoulder or arm — seek emergency care immediately.
• Severe pain not relieved by rest or medication — contact your healthcare provider urgently.
• Signs of infection such as fever, redness, warmth, or swelling around the shoulder — get prompt medical evaluation.

What telemedicine can do

• Discussing symptoms and medical history related to shoulder pain.
• Guiding you through shoulder movement tests to assess pain and function.
• Providing advice on pain management, exercises, and self-care strategies.
• Determining if further tests or in-person care are needed.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing hands-on physical examination or imaging tests.
• Diagnosing complex shoulder injuries that require imaging or specialist evaluation.
• Providing emergency care for severe injuries or infections.

What is Shoulder Strain and Tendinitis?

Shoulder strain happens when muscles or tendons around the shoulder are stretched or torn. Tendinitis means inflammation of the tendons, often from overuse or injury. Both can cause pain, stiffness, and difficulty moving your shoulder. Common causes include repetitive motions, heavy lifting, or sudden injury.

How to Prepare for Your Video Visit

Before your video visit, find a quiet, well-lit space with good internet connection. Wear clothing that allows easy access to your shoulder, like a sleeveless top. Have a list of your symptoms ready, including when the pain started, what makes it better or worse, and any treatments you have tried. Prepare to show your shoulder movements on camera as your provider may ask you to perform simple tests.

What to Expect During the Video Visit

Your healthcare provider will ask questions about your pain and how it affects your daily life. They may guide you through movements to check your shoulder’s range of motion and look for signs of injury. Based on this, they can suggest treatments such as rest, exercises, or medications. They may also advise if you need further tests or in-person care.

When to Seek Urgent Care

If you experience severe shoulder pain, sudden weakness, numbness, or inability to move your arm, seek emergency care immediately. Also, if you have fever, redness, or swelling around the shoulder, or if your symptoms worsen quickly, in-person evaluation is important.

Managing Shoulder Pain After Your Visit

Follow your provider’s advice on rest, exercises, and medications. Use ice or heat as recommended to reduce pain and swelling. Avoid activities that worsen your pain. If your symptoms do not improve or get worse, schedule a follow-up visit or see a healthcare provider in person.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Choose a quiet, well-lit room with a stable internet connection.
• Wear clothing that allows easy access to your shoulder (e.g., sleeveless shirt).
• Prepare a list of your symptoms, including when they started and what affects them.
• Have a list of any medications or treatments you have tried.
• Be ready to show your shoulder movements on camera as instructed by your provider.
• Have a notepad or device ready to take notes during the visit.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the treatment plan and advice given by your healthcare provider.
• Use ice or heat therapy as recommended to reduce pain and swelling.
• Perform prescribed exercises gently to improve shoulder mobility and strength.
• Avoid activities that increase your pain or risk further injury.
• Schedule a follow-up visit if symptoms persist or worsen.
• Seek in-person care if you develop red flags or new concerning symptoms.

FAQs

Can a video visit diagnose my shoulder pain?

A video visit allows your provider to assess your symptoms and guide you through simple movement tests. While it can help suggest likely causes and treatment plans, some conditions may require in-person exams or imaging for a full diagnosis.

What should I do if my shoulder pain gets worse after the video visit?

If your pain worsens or you develop new symptoms like weakness, numbness, or fever, contact your healthcare provider promptly or seek in-person care.

Can I get prescriptions during a video visit for shoulder pain?

Often, providers can recommend or prescribe medications during a video visit if appropriate. However, this depends on your location and the provider's policies.

How can I show my shoulder movements effectively during the video visit?

Wear clothing that exposes your shoulder and position your camera so your provider can see your upper body clearly. Follow their instructions to move your arm in different directions slowly and carefully.

Is telemedicine safe for managing shoulder pain?

Telemedicine is a safe and convenient way to discuss your symptoms and get advice. However, it is not a substitute for in-person care when urgent or complex issues arise.

Sources

1. Shoulder Pain — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Tendinitis and Bursitis — Mayo Clinic.
3. Shoulder Pain: Causes and Treatment — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
4. Telehealth: Delivering Care Safely During COVID-19 — Agency for Healthcare Research & Quality (AHRQ).

This information is for education and preparation purposes only and is not a substitute for professional in-person medical care. Telemedicine can help manage many health concerns, but some conditions require hands-on evaluation or emergency treatment. Always seek immediate care if you experience severe symptoms or emergencies.