How to prepare for a telemedicine visit about Elbow Pain

Audience: adult

Elbow pain can result from many causes, such as injury, overuse, or inflammation. Preparing well for a telemedicine visit can help your healthcare provider understand your symptoms and offer the best advice. During the visit, you will discuss your pain, its location, and what makes it better or worse. You may be asked to show your elbow on camera and perform simple movements. Telemedicine is often suitable for initial assessments and follow-ups but may not replace a full physical exam or imaging tests. If your pain is severe, sudden, or accompanied by other symptoms like numbness or swelling, in-person care is usually needed. This guide will help you get ready for your telemedicine visit about elbow pain, understand what telemedicine can and cannot do, and know when to seek urgent care.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Sudden severe elbow pain with inability to move the joint — seek emergency care immediately.
• Visible deformity or abnormal shape of the elbow after an injury — get urgent in-person evaluation.
• Numbness, tingling, or weakness in your hand or arm along with elbow pain — contact healthcare provider promptly.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial assessment of mild to moderate elbow pain.
• Discussion of symptom history and progression.
• Guidance on home care and pain management.
• Follow-up visits to monitor recovery or treatment response.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Physical examination requiring hands-on assessment or manipulation.
• Imaging tests like X-rays or MRIs, which require in-person visits.
• Treatment of severe injuries such as fractures or dislocations.
• Emergencies involving sudden severe pain or neurological symptoms.

What to Expect During Your Telemedicine Visit

Your healthcare provider will ask about your elbow pain, including when it started, how severe it is, and what activities affect it. You may be asked to move your elbow in different ways to check your range of motion and pain points. Be ready to describe any swelling, bruising, or numbness. The provider may also ask about your medical history and any recent injuries.

How to Prepare for Your Telemedicine Visit

Find a quiet, well-lit space where you can sit comfortably with your elbow visible on camera. Have a list of your symptoms, any medications you take, and questions you want to ask. Wear clothing that allows easy access to your elbow. Make sure your device is charged and your internet connection is stable.

When Telemedicine is Appropriate for Elbow Pain

Telemedicine works well for discussing mild to moderate elbow pain, follow-up visits, or when you need advice on managing symptoms at home. It can help your provider decide if you need imaging tests or in-person care. It is useful for monitoring recovery after treatment.

When to Seek In-Person Care

If your elbow pain is severe, sudden, or associated with visible deformity, inability to move your elbow, intense swelling, numbness, or weakness in your hand or arm, you should seek urgent in-person care. These signs may indicate a fracture, nerve injury, or infection that needs immediate attention.

Tips for After Your Telemedicine Visit

Follow the treatment or self-care advice given by your provider. This may include rest, ice, pain relief, or exercises. If symptoms worsen or new symptoms develop, contact your healthcare provider promptly. Schedule any recommended follow-up visits or tests.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Choose a quiet, well-lit place with good internet connection.
• Wear clothing that exposes your elbow for easy viewing.
• Have a list of your symptoms and any recent injuries.
• Prepare a list of current medications and medical history.
• Charge your device and test camera and microphone before the visit.
• Have a family member or friend available if you need assistance during the visit.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the provider's advice on rest, medication, or exercises.
• Monitor your symptoms and note any changes.
• Schedule follow-up appointments if recommended.
• Seek in-person care if red-flag symptoms develop or worsen.
• Keep a record of your pain and any treatments tried for future visits.

FAQs

Can telemedicine diagnose the cause of my elbow pain?

Telemedicine can help your provider understand your symptoms and suggest possible causes, but it may not replace a full physical exam or imaging tests needed for a definitive diagnosis.

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

If your pain worsens, especially if you develop new symptoms like numbness, swelling, or inability to move your elbow, contact your healthcare provider promptly or seek in-person care.

Can I show my elbow on camera during the telemedicine visit?

Yes, showing your elbow on camera helps your provider assess its appearance and guide you through movements to better understand your pain.

Is telemedicine suitable for all types of elbow pain?

Telemedicine is often suitable for mild to moderate pain and follow-ups but may not be appropriate for severe injuries, suspected fractures, or signs of infection, which require in-person evaluation.

Do I need any special equipment for my telemedicine visit?

Usually, a smartphone, tablet, or computer with a camera and microphone is sufficient. A family member can assist if needed.

Sources

1. Elbow Pain — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Telehealth: What to Expect During Your Visit — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
3. Elbow Pain: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments — Mayo Clinic.
4. Telemedicine and Telehealth — National Library of Medicine.

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, seek immediate medical attention.