How to Prepare for a Telemedicine Visit About Elbow Pain in Children

Audience: pediatric

Elbow pain in children can arise from many causes, such as injury, overuse, or infection. Telemedicine visits offer a convenient way to discuss symptoms with a healthcare provider without leaving home. During the visit, the provider will ask about the child's pain, how it started, and any other symptoms. They may guide you through simple movements to observe the elbow. Telemedicine is often suitable for mild to moderate elbow pain without severe injury or signs of infection. However, if the child has intense pain, swelling, fever, or cannot move the elbow, in-person care is important. Preparing for the visit by having a quiet space, good lighting, and any relevant medical information ready can help the appointment go smoothly. After the visit, follow the provider’s advice carefully and seek emergency care if the child’s condition worsens. This guide helps families understand how to get the most from a telemedicine visit about elbow pain in children.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Severe elbow pain that prevents movement — seek emergency care immediately.
• Visible deformity or swelling with redness and warmth — seek urgent in-person evaluation.
• Fever with elbow pain — possible infection requiring prompt medical attention.

What telemedicine can do

• Mild to moderate elbow pain without severe injury.
• Follow-up for ongoing elbow pain management.
• Advice on home care and symptom monitoring.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Suspected fractures or dislocations.
• Signs of infection such as fever, redness, or warmth.
• Severe pain limiting movement or causing numbness.

What to Expect During the Telemedicine Visit

The healthcare provider will ask detailed questions about your child's elbow pain, including when it started, what makes it better or worse, and any recent injuries. They may ask you to show the elbow on camera and guide your child through simple movements to check for pain or limited motion. Be ready to describe any swelling, redness, or other symptoms.

When Telemedicine Is Appropriate for Elbow Pain

Telemedicine works well for mild to moderate elbow pain without serious injury. It is helpful for discussing symptoms, getting advice on home care, and deciding if further tests or in-person visits are needed. It can also help monitor recovery after minor injuries.

When to Seek In-Person Care

If your child has severe pain, cannot move the elbow, has visible deformity, swelling, redness, warmth, fever, or numbness, they should be seen in person promptly. These signs may indicate fractures, infections, or other serious conditions requiring immediate evaluation.

Preparing for the Telemedicine Visit

Find a quiet, well-lit space with good internet connection. Have your child’s medical history, any recent imaging or test results, and a list of current medications ready. Wear clothing that allows easy access to the elbow. Have a family member assist with the camera if needed.

After the Telemedicine Visit

Follow the healthcare provider’s instructions for care, including medications, rest, or exercises. Watch for any worsening symptoms or new red flags. Schedule follow-up visits if recommended, either by telemedicine or in person.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Choose a quiet, well-lit area with stable internet connection.
• Have your child's medical history and any recent test results available.
• Wear clothing that allows easy access to the elbow.
• Prepare to describe symptoms clearly, including onset and triggers.
• Have a family member assist with the camera if needed.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the provider's instructions for medications and care.
• Monitor your child's symptoms closely for any changes.
• Seek in-person care if red flag symptoms develop.
• Schedule follow-up appointments as advised.
• Keep records of any new symptoms or concerns to discuss later.

FAQs

Can a telemedicine visit diagnose the cause of my child's elbow pain?

Telemedicine providers can often identify common causes of elbow pain based on history and observation. However, some conditions may require physical exams or imaging tests only available in person.

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

If your child's pain worsens, or new symptoms like swelling, redness, fever, or inability to move the elbow develop, seek in-person medical care promptly.

How can I help my child during the telemedicine visit?

Assist with positioning the camera to show the elbow clearly. Help your child perform any movements the provider requests. Provide clear answers to the provider's questions about symptoms and history.

Is telemedicine safe for children with elbow pain?

Yes, telemedicine is safe for many cases of elbow pain and can reduce exposure to other illnesses. It is important to recognize when in-person care is necessary for more serious conditions.

Sources

1. Elbow Pain in Children — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Telemedicine: What You Need to Know — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
3. Pediatric Musculoskeletal Injuries — American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).
4. Elbow Pain: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment — Mayo Clinic.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical care. Telemedicine can help assess symptoms but cannot replace in-person evaluation when needed. Always seek emergency care if your child has severe symptoms or you are concerned about their health.