How to Prepare for a Telemedicine Visit About Body Aches in Children

Audience: pediatric

Body aches in children can be caused by many things, such as viral infections, growing pains, or minor injuries. A telemedicine visit allows you to talk with a healthcare provider from home, which can be convenient and safe. During the visit, the provider will ask about your child's symptoms, medical history, and any other concerns. It's important to prepare before the appointment to make the most of the time. Telemedicine can often help determine if your child needs in-person care or if home care is sufficient. However, some symptoms require urgent medical attention and cannot be fully evaluated through telemedicine. Knowing when to seek emergency care is vital for your child's safety.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Child has difficulty breathing or persistent chest pain — seek emergency care immediately.
• Child is unable to move limbs or has sudden weakness — go to the nearest emergency department.
• High fever (above 39°C/102°F) lasting more than two days or accompanied by rash, confusion, or seizures — seek urgent medical evaluation.

What telemedicine can do

• Mild to moderate body aches without severe symptoms
• Initial assessment of common viral infections or muscle strains
• Guidance on home care and symptom monitoring
• Advice on when to seek in-person care

What telemedicine cannot do

• Severe or worsening pain needing physical examination
• Signs of serious infection or emergency (e.g., difficulty breathing, seizures)
• Conditions requiring immediate diagnostic tests or procedures

What to Expect During a Telemedicine Visit for Body Aches

During the telemedicine visit, the healthcare provider will ask about the location, duration, and severity of your child's body aches. They may inquire about other symptoms like fever, rash, or difficulty moving. You might be asked to show your child on camera to observe movement or any visible signs. The provider will guide you through questions to understand the possible causes and recommend next steps.

How to Prepare for the Telemedicine Appointment

Before the visit, gather important information such as your child's medical history, current medications, and any recent illnesses or injuries. Find a quiet, well-lit space with a good internet connection. Have a list of symptoms and questions ready. Make sure your child is comfortable and, if possible, have another adult present to help during the visit.

When Telemedicine Is Appropriate for Body Aches

Telemedicine is often suitable for mild to moderate body aches without severe symptoms. It can help assess common causes like viral infections or minor muscle strains. Providers can offer advice on home care, pain relief, and when to watch for warning signs.

When to Seek In-Person Care or Emergency Help

If your child has severe pain, difficulty breathing, high fever, inability to move limbs, confusion, or signs of a serious infection, seek immediate in-person medical care. Telemedicine cannot replace physical exams or urgent treatments needed in emergencies.

Tips for Effective Communication During the Visit

Speak clearly and describe symptoms in detail. Use simple language to explain what your child is experiencing. Show any visible symptoms on camera if possible. Don’t hesitate to ask questions or request clarification to understand the provider’s advice fully.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Ensure a reliable internet connection and a charged device with a camera and microphone.
• Find a quiet, well-lit space for the visit.
• Have your child's medical history, current medications, and recent health information ready.
• Prepare a list of symptoms, including when they started and any changes.
• Write down questions or concerns to discuss with the provider.
• Have another adult available to assist if needed.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the provider’s recommendations for home care and medications.
• Monitor your child's symptoms closely and note any changes.
• Schedule a follow-up appointment if advised or if symptoms persist.
• Seek in-person care promptly if any red flag symptoms develop.
• Keep a record of the telemedicine visit summary and instructions for future reference.

FAQs

Can telemedicine diagnose the cause of my child's body aches?

Telemedicine providers can often identify common causes based on symptoms and history, but some conditions may require in-person exams or tests for a definitive diagnosis.

What should I do if my child's symptoms get worse after the telemedicine visit?

If symptoms worsen or new concerning signs appear, seek in-person medical care promptly, especially if red flag symptoms develop.

Is it safe to give my child medication recommended during a telemedicine visit?

Yes, you can usually follow the provider's advice on medications. Make sure to ask about dosages and possible side effects during the visit.

Can I have more than one person join the telemedicine visit?

Many telemedicine platforms allow multiple participants. Having another adult present can help with communication and support during the visit.

What if my child is too young or uncooperative during the telemedicine visit?

Try to keep your child calm and comfortable. If the provider cannot complete the evaluation, they may recommend an in-person visit for a thorough assessment.

Sources

1. Body Aches — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Muscle Pain (Myalgia) — Mayo Clinic.
3. When to Seek Medical Care for Fever in Children — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
4. Telehealth: What to Expect — American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If your child has severe symptoms or emergency signs, seek immediate medical attention.