Red flags & when to go in person for Neck Pain in Children

Audience: pediatric

Neck pain in children can be caused by many things, from minor muscle strain to more serious conditions. Telemedicine can help assess mild neck pain and guide care, but some symptoms require prompt in-person evaluation. Watch for warning signs like high fever, neck stiffness preventing movement, or sudden weakness or numbness. These may indicate infections, injuries, or neurological problems that need urgent care. Telemedicine visits are useful for discussing symptoms, reviewing medical history, and deciding if further tests or treatments are needed. Always seek emergency care if your child has trouble breathing, severe pain, or changes in consciousness. Early recognition of red flags helps keep your child safe and ensures timely treatment.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• High fever with neck stiffness or inability to bend the neck — seek emergency care immediately.
• Sudden weakness, numbness, or difficulty walking — go to a healthcare facility promptly.
• Severe neck pain following a fall or injury — get urgent medical evaluation.

What telemedicine can do

• Assessment of mild neck pain without red flags.
• Reviewing symptoms and medical history.
• Providing advice on home care and symptom management.
• Determining if in-person evaluation or tests are needed.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Evaluating severe neck pain after trauma.
• Diagnosing or treating suspected spinal injuries.
• Managing neurological deficits like weakness or numbness.
• Treating infections requiring urgent intervention.

Common Causes of Neck Pain in Children

Neck pain in children often results from muscle strain, poor posture, or minor injuries. Sometimes, infections like a sore throat or swollen lymph nodes can cause discomfort. Less commonly, neck pain may be due to more serious issues such as inflammation, injury to the spine, or neurological problems. Understanding the cause helps guide proper care.

When to Use Telemedicine for Neck Pain

Telemedicine can be a helpful first step for mild neck pain without serious symptoms. A healthcare provider can ask about your child's symptoms, look for warning signs, and suggest treatments like rest, gentle stretching, or over-the-counter pain relief. They can also advise if an in-person visit or tests are needed.

Red Flags That Need In-Person Care

Seek immediate medical attention if your child has:

These signs may indicate serious infections, spinal injury, or neurological problems requiring urgent evaluation.

Preparing for a Telemedicine Visit

Before the visit, gather information such as:

Make sure your child is in a quiet place with good lighting for the video call.

What to Expect After the Telemedicine Visit

After the visit, follow the provider’s advice on home care, medications, or exercises. If tests or an in-person exam are recommended, schedule these promptly. Monitor your child for any new or worsening symptoms and seek emergency care if red flags appear.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Note when the neck pain began and describe the pain.
• List any recent injuries or illnesses your child has had.
• Observe and note any additional symptoms like fever or weakness.
• Have your child in a well-lit, quiet space for the video call.
• Prepare a list of current medications and medical history.

After your tele-visit

• Follow home care instructions provided by the healthcare provider.
• Administer recommended medications as directed.
• Schedule any recommended in-person exams or tests.
• Monitor your child for any new or worsening symptoms.
• Seek emergency care if red flags develop after the visit.

FAQs

Can telemedicine diagnose the cause of my child's neck pain?

Telemedicine can help assess symptoms and guide initial care, but it may not provide a definitive diagnosis, especially if physical examination or imaging is needed. If serious concerns arise, an in-person visit is advised.

When should I take my child to the emergency room for neck pain?

Go to the emergency room if your child has a high fever with neck stiffness, sudden weakness or numbness, severe pain after an injury, difficulty breathing or swallowing, or changes in alertness.

What home treatments can help mild neck pain in children?

Mild neck pain often improves with rest, gentle stretching, applying warm or cold compresses, and over-the-counter pain relievers suitable for children. Always follow dosing instructions and consult a healthcare provider if unsure.

Is neck pain common in children?

Yes, neck pain can occur in children due to muscle strain, poor posture, or minor injuries. Most cases are mild and improve with simple care, but monitoring for red flags is important.

Sources

1. Neck Pain in Children — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Neck Pain: Symptoms and Causes — Mayo Clinic.
3. Pediatric Neck Pain: Evaluation and Management — American Academy of Pediatrics.
4. When to Seek Emergency Care for Neck Pain — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional in-person medical care. If your child has any concerning symptoms or red flags, seek immediate medical attention.