How to prepare for a telemedicine visit about Wrist Pain

Audience: pediatric

If your child has wrist pain, a telemedicine visit can be a helpful first step to understand the problem. During the virtual visit, a healthcare provider will ask about the pain, how it started, and any other symptoms. They may guide you through simple movements or show you how to check the wrist. Telemedicine is often suitable for mild injuries or ongoing wrist discomfort. However, if the pain is severe, the wrist looks deformed, or your child cannot move it, in-person care is usually needed. Preparing for the visit by gathering information and having a quiet space helps the appointment go smoothly. After the visit, follow the provider's advice and watch for any worsening signs. This guide will help you know what to expect, how to prepare, and when to seek urgent care.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Severe wrist pain that prevents moving the wrist or fingers — seek urgent medical care.
• Visible deformity, swelling, or bruising of the wrist — get in-person evaluation promptly.
• Numbness, tingling, or loss of feeling in the hand or fingers — requires immediate medical attention.

What telemedicine can do

• Mild to moderate wrist pain without obvious injury.
• Follow-up questions about wrist pain management.
• Guidance on home care like rest, ice, and pain relief.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Severe pain or inability to move the wrist.
• Obvious deformity, swelling, or bruising needing physical exam.
• Signs of infection such as redness, warmth, or fever.

What to Expect During the Telemedicine Visit

The healthcare provider will ask about your child's wrist pain, including when it started, what caused it, and how it feels. You may be asked to show the wrist on camera and help your child move it slowly to check for pain or limited movement. The provider may suggest simple home care steps or decide if your child needs to see someone in person.

When Telemedicine Is Appropriate for Wrist Pain

Telemedicine works well for mild wrist pain without obvious injury or severe symptoms. It is helpful for follow-up visits or when you need advice on managing pain and swelling at home. It can also help decide if your child needs further tests or in-person care.

Signs That Need In-Person Care

If your child's wrist is swollen, bruised, or deformed, or if they cannot move it or bear weight, seek in-person care. Also, if your child has numbness, severe pain, or signs of infection like redness and fever, a physical exam and imaging may be needed.

How to Prepare for the Telemedicine Visit

Find a quiet, well-lit space with good internet. Have your child's recent medical information ready, including any injuries or treatments. Prepare to show the wrist on camera and assist your child with movements. Write down questions or concerns to discuss with the provider.

After the Telemedicine Visit

Follow the provider's advice on care, such as rest, ice, or medication. Watch for any changes like increased pain, swelling, or fever. Schedule follow-up visits if recommended and seek emergency care if red flags appear.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Choose a quiet, well-lit area with good internet connection.
• Have your child's medical history and details about the wrist pain ready.
• Prepare to show the wrist clearly on camera.
• Write down any questions or concerns to discuss.
• Have any medications your child is taking nearby.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the healthcare provider's advice on care and medication.
• Monitor your child's wrist for worsening symptoms.
• Schedule any recommended follow-up appointments.
• Seek in-person care if red flags appear.
• Keep notes on any changes to report later.

FAQs

Can a doctor diagnose a wrist fracture over a video call?

A doctor cannot confirm a fracture without an X-ray, which requires an in-person visit. However, they can assess symptoms and decide if your child needs imaging.

What home treatments can I do for my child's wrist pain?

Common advice includes resting the wrist, applying ice to reduce swelling, and giving age-appropriate pain relief. Your provider will guide you based on your child's needs.

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

If your child has severe pain, cannot move the wrist or fingers, has visible deformity, or shows signs of infection like fever and redness, seek emergency care immediately.

Will the telemedicine provider be able to prescribe medication?

Often, yes. Providers can prescribe medications during a telemedicine visit if appropriate, but this depends on local regulations and the specific situation.

Sources

1. Wrist Pain — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Telehealth: What to Expect — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
3. Wrist Injuries in Children — American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).
4. Telemedicine: Benefits and Limitations — Mayo Clinic.

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