What Happens After a Telemedicine Visit for Shoulder Pain (Strain/Tendinitis)

Audience: adult

After a telemedicine visit for shoulder pain caused by strain or tendinitis, you will usually receive advice on managing your symptoms at home. This often includes rest, gentle exercises, and ways to reduce pain and swelling. Your healthcare provider may recommend over-the-counter pain relievers or suggest physical therapy if needed. Sometimes, they might advise follow-up visits to check your progress. It’s important to watch for any worsening symptoms or new problems, which may require in-person care. Telemedicine helps you get timely advice and support but cannot replace hands-on exams or advanced imaging tests. Following your provider’s instructions and knowing when to seek urgent care can help your shoulder heal safely and comfortably.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Sudden inability to move your shoulder or arm — seek emergency care.
• Numbness, tingling, or weakness in your arm or hand — contact your provider promptly.
• Signs of infection around the shoulder such as redness, warmth, swelling, or fever — get urgent medical attention.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial assessment of shoulder pain symptoms.
• Providing guidance on home care and pain management.
• Monitoring recovery progress through follow-up visits.
• Answering questions about exercises and medication use.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical examinations requiring hands-on assessment.
• Ordering or interpreting imaging tests like X-rays or MRIs.
• Administering injections or other in-person treatments.
• Diagnosing complex or emergency conditions requiring immediate care.

What to Expect Immediately After Your Telemedicine Visit

Your healthcare provider will likely give you instructions on how to care for your shoulder at home. This may include resting the shoulder, applying ice to reduce swelling, and avoiding activities that cause pain. They might also suggest simple exercises to improve movement and strength. You may receive guidance on using pain relievers safely and when to take them.

Managing Your Shoulder Pain at Home

Home care often involves balancing rest with gentle movement. Applying ice packs for 15-20 minutes several times a day can help reduce inflammation. Over-the-counter pain medicines, like acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), may ease discomfort. Gradually, you can start stretching and strengthening exercises as advised by your provider or a physical therapist.

When to Schedule Follow-Up Care

Your provider may recommend a follow-up telemedicine or in-person visit if your pain does not improve within a few weeks or if symptoms worsen. Follow-up visits help track your recovery and adjust treatment plans. In some cases, imaging tests like X-rays or MRIs might be needed to rule out other problems.

Red Flags: When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention

If you experience sudden severe shoulder pain, inability to move your arm, numbness or weakness in your arm or hand, or signs of infection such as fever and redness around the shoulder, seek urgent medical care. These symptoms may indicate a more serious condition requiring prompt evaluation.

How Telemedicine Supports Your Care

Telemedicine allows you to consult with healthcare providers from home, receive advice, and get answers to your questions quickly. It is useful for initial assessments and follow-ups but cannot perform physical exams or procedures. Your provider will guide you if in-person care is necessary.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Find a quiet, well-lit place for your telemedicine visit.
• Have your medical history and a list of current medications ready.
• Prepare to describe your shoulder pain clearly, including when it started and what makes it better or worse.
• Have a family member or friend available to assist if needed.
• Be ready to show your shoulder area on camera if requested.
• Write down any questions or concerns before the visit.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the care instructions provided by your healthcare provider.
• Use ice and over-the-counter pain relief as recommended.
• Begin gentle exercises or physical therapy if advised.
• Monitor your symptoms and note any changes.
• Schedule follow-up visits as recommended.
• Seek in-person care if red-flag symptoms develop.

FAQs

Can telemedicine fully treat my shoulder strain or tendinitis?

Telemedicine can guide you on managing your symptoms and recovery but cannot replace hands-on exams or treatments. Some cases may require in-person visits for physical therapy or imaging.

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

If your pain worsens, or you develop new symptoms like numbness or severe weakness, contact your healthcare provider promptly or seek emergency care if severe.

Are there exercises I can do safely at home?

Yes, your provider may recommend gentle stretching and strengthening exercises to support healing. Always follow their instructions and stop if pain increases.

How long does shoulder strain or tendinitis usually take to heal?

Recovery time varies but often takes several weeks with proper care. Consistent rest, exercise, and following medical advice help speed healing.

When should I consider seeing a specialist?

If your symptoms do not improve with initial care or if you have recurring shoulder pain, your provider may refer you to a specialist such as an orthopedist or physical therapist.

Sources

1. Shoulder Pain — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Shoulder Tendinitis and Bursitis — Mayo Clinic.
3. Tendinitis — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
4. Shoulder Pain: Diagnosis and Treatment — Merck Manuals Consumer Version.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical care. Telemedicine guidance cannot replace in-person evaluation, diagnosis, or treatment by a healthcare provider. If you have concerns about your health or experience any red-flag symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.