How to prepare for a telemedicine visit about Back Pain

Audience: adult

Back pain is a common issue that many adults experience. Telemedicine can be a convenient way to discuss your symptoms with a healthcare provider without needing to visit a clinic in person. During a telemedicine visit, you can describe your pain, discuss your medical history, and get advice on managing your symptoms. However, some back pain symptoms require urgent in-person evaluation. Preparing well for your telemedicine visit can help your provider understand your condition better and offer the right guidance. This includes having information about your pain, any treatments you have tried, and your overall health. Remember, telemedicine is a helpful tool but not a replacement for emergency or hands-on care when needed.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Sudden weakness or numbness in legs or arms — seek emergency care immediately.
• Loss of bladder or bowel control — go to the emergency room right away.
• Severe back pain after a fall or injury — get urgent medical evaluation.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial evaluation of back pain symptoms.
• Discussion of pain history and symptom details.
• Advice on home management and self-care.
• Medication review and adjustments for mild to moderate pain.
• Follow-up on ongoing treatment plans.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Emergency situations such as sudden paralysis or loss of bladder/bowel control.
• Severe trauma requiring physical examination and imaging.
• Procedures that require hands-on treatment or physical therapy sessions.
• Diagnosis of complex spinal conditions needing in-person tests.

What to Expect During Your Telemedicine Visit

Your healthcare provider will ask about your back pain, including when it started, where it hurts, and what makes it better or worse. They may ask about your daily activities, any injuries, and other health problems. You might be asked to show your back or move in certain ways on camera to help the provider assess your condition.

How to Prepare for the Visit

Find a quiet, well-lit space with good internet connection. Have a list of your symptoms, medications, and any questions ready. Wear comfortable clothing that allows you to show your back if needed. Be ready to describe your pain clearly, including its location, intensity, and any other symptoms like numbness or weakness.

When to Seek In-Person Care

If you experience sudden weakness, loss of bladder or bowel control, severe pain after an injury, or fever with back pain, you should seek emergency care immediately. These signs may indicate serious conditions that need urgent attention.

Managing Back Pain at Home

Your provider may suggest rest, gentle stretching, over-the-counter pain relievers, or heat and cold therapy. They might also recommend exercises or physical therapy. Follow their advice and report any changes in your symptoms.

Follow-Up and Next Steps

After your telemedicine visit, your provider may schedule follow-up appointments, recommend imaging tests, or refer you to a specialist if needed. Keep track of your symptoms and communicate any new concerns promptly.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Choose a quiet, well-lit room with a stable internet connection.
• Have a list of your symptoms, including when they started and what affects them.
• Prepare a list of current medications and any treatments tried for back pain.
• Wear comfortable clothing that allows you to show your back if needed.
• Write down any questions or concerns you want to discuss.
• Ensure your device’s camera and microphone are working properly.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the provider’s recommendations for medications or home treatments.
• Schedule any recommended follow-up visits or tests.
• Monitor your symptoms and note any changes or new symptoms.
• Contact your healthcare provider if symptoms worsen or new red flags appear.
• Maintain a healthy lifestyle with appropriate exercise and posture as advised.

FAQs

Can a telemedicine visit diagnose the cause of my back pain?

Telemedicine can help your provider understand your symptoms and suggest possible causes, but it may not be able to provide a definitive diagnosis without physical examination or imaging tests that often require in-person visits.

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

If your pain worsens or you develop new symptoms like weakness, numbness, or bladder issues, seek in-person medical care promptly, especially if these are sudden changes.

Are there treatments for back pain that can be started through telemedicine?

Yes, providers can often recommend medications, exercises, and self-care strategies during a telemedicine visit. They may also refer you to specialists or physical therapy if needed.

How long will a telemedicine visit for back pain usually take?

Telemedicine visits typically last between 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the complexity of your symptoms and questions.

Do I need any special equipment for a telemedicine visit about back pain?

Usually, you just need a device with a camera and microphone, such as a smartphone, tablet, or computer, and a private space where you can move comfortably to show your back if asked.

Sources

1. Back Pain — MedlinePlus | U.S. National Library of Medicine / National Institutes of Health.
2. Low Back Pain Fact Sheet — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
3. Back Pain - Symptoms and Causes — Mayo Clinic.
4. Low Back Pain — National Library of Medicine.

This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Telemedicine can be a helpful way to discuss your symptoms, but it is not a substitute for in-person care when urgent or hands-on evaluation is needed. Always seek immediate medical attention if you experience serious symptoms or emergencies.