Shoulder Evaluation by Telephone and Video Visit: A Narrative Review

Abstract

Telemedicine has a very important role in today's healthcare system, which has been accentuated during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. Virtual medical evaluations offer a myriad of benefits for both patients and providers. Evaluations of the musculoskeletal system, however, present unique challenges because diagnosis significantly relies on a physical examination, something not easily accomplished by virtual means. The shoulder, a complex region with four separate articulations, is no exception. Nevertheless, a properly planned and executed telemedicine visit may yield successful results even with challenging shoulder pathologies. This narrative review aims to offer clinicians who are novices in the practice of telemedicine a basic framework with instructions, questions, and some examples of interpretation of patient answers to guide them through encounters for the evaluation of shoulder complaints via telephone and video consultation.

Keywords: musculoskeletal injury; orthopedic practice; shoulder pathology; telehealth education; telemedicine (tm).

Figure 1. A: Palpation of Clavicular Region. B: Abduction of Arms. C: Overhead Arm Clap.

Figure 2. A: External Rotation of Arm. B: Modified Speed’s Test. C: Modified Empty Can (Job’s) Test.

Figure 3. A: Modified Crossover (Scarf) Test. B: Modified Apprehension Test. C: Assessment of Cervical Spine Range of Motion.