Ankle Telemedicine Planning Considerations

Abstract

A virtual medical visit, also known as telemedicine or telehealth, is a valuable alternative method of providing health care to patients who do not have easy access to a hospital, or during times when limited social interaction is crucial such as our current COVID-19 pandemic. A virtual approach to evaluating musculoskeletal system ailments is particularly challenging, for diagnosis of these conditions generally rely greatly on physical examination, which may be challenging. However, a properly planned and executed telemedicine visit will yield successful results in most cases. Our aim is to produce a document with instructions and suggestions, including physical examination maneuvers, to help physicians carry out a proper virtual medical visit with patients complaining of ankle musculoskeletal problems. Virtual visits should not be thought of as a replacement for traditional face-to-face medical consultations, but rather a complementary method to provide health care when deemed appropriate. By following this guide, and tailoring it to the specific case at hand, medical providers should be able to effectively carry out a successful telemedicine consultation for musculoskeletal ailments relating to the ankle.

Levels of Evidence: Level V