How to Prepare for a Telemedicine Visit About Ankle Pain

Audience: adult

Ankle pain is a common problem that can result from injury, overuse, or medical conditions. Telemedicine can be a convenient way to discuss your ankle pain with a healthcare provider without needing to visit a clinic in person. To get the most from your telemedicine visit, it helps to prepare ahead by gathering information about your symptoms, any recent injuries, and your medical history. During the visit, your provider may ask you to describe the pain, show the ankle via video, and discuss any treatments you have tried. Telemedicine can often help identify the cause of ankle pain and suggest initial treatments or when to seek further in-person care. However, if you experience severe pain, inability to walk, or signs of infection, you should seek urgent medical attention. Preparing well and understanding what telemedicine can and cannot do will help you get the best care for your ankle pain.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Severe ankle pain that prevents walking or bearing weight — seek emergency care immediately.
• Visible deformity, severe swelling, or bruising around the ankle — arrange urgent in-person evaluation.
• Signs of infection such as redness, warmth, fever, or pus — seek prompt medical attention.

What telemedicine can do

• Mild to moderate ankle pain without severe symptoms.
• Follow-up consultations to review progress or adjust treatment.
• Advice on home care measures like rest, ice, compression, and elevation.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Severe pain preventing walking or weight-bearing.
• Suspected fractures or dislocations needing imaging and urgent care.
• Signs of infection requiring physical examination and possible antibiotics.

What to Expect During Your Telemedicine Visit

During your telemedicine appointment, your healthcare provider will ask about your ankle pain, including when it started, what makes it better or worse, and any recent injuries. They may ask you to move your ankle in different ways while showing it on video to assess swelling, bruising, or deformities. Be ready to discuss any other symptoms like numbness or fever. Your provider may suggest home treatments or recommend an in-person visit if needed.

When Telemedicine is Appropriate for Ankle Pain

Telemedicine can be suitable for mild to moderate ankle pain, especially if it started recently and you do not have severe symptoms. It is helpful for follow-up visits or to get advice on managing pain and swelling. If your pain is manageable and you can safely move your ankle, telemedicine can often guide your care effectively.

When to Seek In-Person Care

You should seek in-person medical care if you have severe ankle pain, cannot walk or put weight on the ankle, notice significant swelling or deformity, or have signs of infection such as redness, warmth, or fever. Also, if your symptoms worsen or do not improve with initial treatments, an in-person evaluation may be necessary.

Preparing for Your Telemedicine Visit

Before your appointment, find a quiet, well-lit space with good internet connection. Have your smartphone, tablet, or computer ready with the telemedicine app or link provided. Wear clothing that allows easy access to your ankle. Prepare a list of your symptoms, any medications you are taking, and questions you want to ask your provider. Having a family member or friend nearby can help if you need assistance.

After Your Telemedicine Visit

Follow the treatment plan your provider recommends, which may include rest, ice, compression, elevation, or medications. Monitor your symptoms and note any changes. If your pain worsens or new symptoms develop, contact your healthcare provider promptly. Schedule any recommended follow-up appointments or in-person visits as advised.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Ensure a stable internet connection and a charged device with camera and microphone.
• Find a well-lit, quiet space for your appointment.
• Wear clothing that allows easy access to your ankle for visual assessment.
• Prepare a list of your symptoms, including when the pain started and any injuries.
• Have a list of current medications and any treatments you have tried.
• Write down any questions or concerns to discuss with your provider.
• Consider having someone available to assist you during the visit if needed.

After your tele-visit

• Follow your provider's recommendations for home care and medications.
• Monitor your ankle for changes in pain, swelling, or mobility.
• Seek in-person care if symptoms worsen or new red flags develop.
• Schedule follow-up telemedicine or in-person visits as advised.
• Keep a record of your symptoms and treatments to discuss at follow-up appointments.

FAQs

Can a doctor diagnose a broken ankle through telemedicine?

A doctor cannot definitively diagnose a broken ankle through telemedicine alone because imaging tests like X-rays are needed. However, they can assess your symptoms and advise if you need urgent in-person evaluation.

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

If your ankle pain worsens significantly, especially if you cannot walk, or if you notice new symptoms like swelling, redness, or fever, seek in-person medical care promptly.

How can I best show my ankle during a video visit?

Position your camera so your healthcare provider can see your entire ankle clearly. Use good lighting, and be prepared to move your ankle slowly in different directions as instructed.

Is it safe to take over-the-counter pain medications for ankle pain?

Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen are often safe and can help reduce pain and inflammation. Discuss with your provider during the visit to ensure they are appropriate for you.

Can telemedicine replace all in-person visits for ankle pain?

Telemedicine can be very helpful for many cases but cannot replace in-person visits when physical exams, imaging, or urgent care are needed. Your provider will guide you on when to seek in-person care.

Sources

1. Ankle pain — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine / NIH.
2. Ankle sprain and strain — Mayo Clinic.
3. Telehealth: What to Expect at Your Telehealth Visit — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
4. Ankle Injuries — Merck Manuals Consumer Version.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional in-person medical care. If you have severe symptoms or concerns, please seek immediate medical attention.