Healthy Aging & Longevity
Musculoskeletal Health & Mobility — Medical Guidance to Help You Keep Moving
Joint pain, back pain, stiffness, weakness, and mobility changes can interfere with everyday life. A licensed physician or nurse practitioner can review your symptoms, screen for warning signs, discuss selected non-controlled treatment, and determine whether physical therapy, imaging, or specialist care may be appropriate.
Start a VisitMusculoskeletal health & mobility
🦴 When pain, stiffness, or limited movement is getting in the way
Musculoskeletal conditions — pain, stiffness, weakness, and mobility limitations affecting joints, muscles, tendons, and the spine — are among the most common reasons people seek medical care. They are also commonly undertreated, as patients are often told to "wait it out" or given a referral without meaningful clinical guidance first.
A physician or nurse practitioner can review your symptoms, screen for warning signs that require in-person evaluation, discuss conservative non-controlled treatment options, and help identify the appropriate next step — whether that's activity guidance, medication, a referral to physical therapy, imaging, or a specialist. That starting conversation is often where the most value is, and it doesn't require a waiting room.
What this service provides
MyPhysician360 visits are provided by licensed physicians (MDs and DOs) and nurse practitioners. A provider can review your symptom history, medications, prior imaging, daily-function changes, and selected movements visible by video. Telehealth may be a useful starting point for mild or uncomplicated musculoskeletal concerns, but cannot replace hands-on palpation, formal strength or neurologic examination, imaging, injections, surgery, or in-person physical therapy. MyPhysician360 does not employ physical therapists. When formal rehabilitation is appropriate, a provider may recommend physical therapy and, when operationally available, provide a referral or order. Referral requirements, insurance coverage, and local access vary.
🚨 Call 911 or go immediately to the nearest emergency department
Call 911 or have someone drive you to the emergency department (do not drive yourself) for: major trauma; a severely deformed limb with loss of circulation, pulse, or sensation; sudden paralysis; uncontrolled bleeding; chest pain, severe shortness of breath, fainting, or coughing up blood; or new urinary retention, loss of bladder or bowel control, numbness around the groin or inner thighs, or rapidly progressive leg weakness — particularly when accompanied by back or leg symptoms. These may represent a surgical emergency.
⚠️ Seek urgent same-day in-person evaluation for:
Inability to bear weight after an injury; a possible fracture; a suspected dislocation (do not attempt to push the joint back into place yourself — seek prompt emergency or orthopedic evaluation, especially with numbness, color change, severe swelling, or compromised circulation); a joint that is hot, rapidly swollen, and intensely painful (particularly with fever — may indicate septic arthritis); sudden marked weakness or numbness in a limb; suspected tendon rupture; new one-sided calf or leg swelling, warmth, or tenderness (call 911 if accompanied by chest pain, shortness of breath, fainting, or coughing up blood); severe muscle pain or weakness with major swelling or dark/cola-colored urine (possible rhabdomyolysis); or significant injury in someone with osteoporosis, anticoagulant use, or frailty. If a head injury occurs in someone taking a blood thinner, or is accompanied by loss of consciousness, repeated vomiting, worsening headache, confusion, unusual sleepiness, weakness, or balance problems, seek urgent in-person evaluation.
Who you'll work with
👥 Medical evaluation, with referral when specialized rehabilitation is needed
Our providers are licensed physicians and nurse practitioners. They can evaluate selected musculoskeletal concerns, review medications, discuss conservative treatment, identify warning signs, and recommend the appropriate next level of care — physical therapy, imaging, or a specialist — when needed.
Physicians (MDs & DOs)
Evaluate symptoms, review medical history and medications, discuss selected non-controlled treatment options, and determine whether in-person examination, imaging, or specialist care is needed. DOs bring additional training in musculoskeletal structure and function.
Nurse Practitioners (NPs)
Advanced practice providers who evaluate selected musculoskeletal concerns, assess possible causes, prescribe non-controlled treatment when appropriate, and determine whether hands-on examination, imaging, or specialist care is needed.
External Physical Therapy
When formal rehabilitation is appropriate, a provider may recommend physical therapy and, when operationally available, provide a referral or order. Local licensed PTs provide hands-on functional assessment, individualized rehabilitation, manual therapy, and exercise progression — things that require in-person care. Referral requirements, insurance coverage, and local access vary.
The value of starting with a medical evaluation
Many patients with musculoskeletal symptoms go straight to urgent care, wait months for an orthopedic appointment, or aren't sure where to start. A telehealth evaluation with a licensed healthcare provider can screen for warning signs, review medications and relevant history, and help clarify whether your symptoms are appropriate for conservative care or whether hands-on examination, physical therapy, imaging, or specialist evaluation should come first.
What we evaluate and support
📋 Common musculoskeletal concerns we see
The following represent common concerns that a physician or NP can help evaluate via telehealth as a starting point. Not every situation can be fully managed remotely — your provider will be direct about when in-person care is the right next step.
Back & neck pain
Among the most common musculoskeletal complaints. A provider can screen for warning signs (red flags) that require imaging or urgent evaluation, review medications, and discuss activity guidance. Many episodes of uncomplicated back pain improve over time — remaining gently active as tolerated is generally preferable to bed rest, and structured exercise may be particularly useful for recurring or chronic symptoms. Formal physical therapy referral is often part of the plan.
Knee pain & stiffness
A provider may assess whether symptoms appear consistent with osteoarthritis, overuse, or patellofemoral pain. Swelling, locking, instability, significant trauma, inability to bear weight, or diagnostic uncertainty may require hands-on examination or imaging. Exercise and, for appropriate patients, gradual weight reduction may help reduce joint load and improve pain or function. See our Medical Weight Support page.
Shoulder pain & limited range of motion
Rotator cuff irritation, adhesive capsulitis, and AC joint concerns are common presentations a provider can begin to assess. A history review and observation of active movement can help identify the likely pattern. Hands-on examination or imaging may be needed for accurate diagnosis, and physical therapy referral is often the most important next step for shoulder rehabilitation.
Hip, wrist, hand & foot pain
Telehealth may begin assessment of selected mild or previously evaluated peripheral joint concerns. Numbness, weakness, deformity, significant swelling, trauma, color or temperature change, or persistent symptoms that haven't been evaluated generally require in-person examination. A provider can help identify which category your situation falls into and recommend the appropriate next step.
Osteoarthritis & joint changes
Osteoarthritis can affect people of any age, particularly after joint injury or with structural risk factors — it is not only an age-related condition. Exercise, activity modification, and appropriate medication may reduce pain and improve or preserve function. A provider can discuss a realistic evidence-based management plan and identify when specialist input is needed. See also our Bone Health page.
Muscle loss, weakness & deconditioning
Age-related loss of strength and muscle function may contribute to falls and reduced independence. A provider can review symptoms, medications, nutrition, activity level, and functional changes, and recommend an in-person strength, gait, or medical assessment when appropriate. This often connects to energy and fatigue concerns as well. See our Energy, Fatigue & Performance page.
Gait, balance & fall risk
Fall risk is often multifactorial. Video may help identify visible gait or balance concerns, but a complete fall-risk assessment may also require in-person strength and neurologic examination, orthostatic vital signs, vision and hearing review, medication assessment, footwear and home-safety evaluation, and osteoporosis screening. Falls accompanied by fainting, near-fainting, palpitations, or loss of awareness require medical evaluation for causes beyond strength and balance — including abnormal heart rhythm, low blood pressure when standing, and low blood sugar. A provider can review your situation and identify what type of in-person evaluation or referral makes sense.
Medication management for musculoskeletal pain
Chronic musculoskeletal pain often benefits from a broader plan including activity modification, sleep and mood assessment, physical therapy, and selected non-controlled medication. A provider can review current medications for safety and effectiveness and discuss appropriate options. MyPhysician360 does not prescribe controlled substances, including opioids, carisoprodol, or benzodiazepines, through this service. Persistent or complex pain may require a pain specialist, rheumatologist, or orthopedist.
Not sure if your concern fits?
If you have pain, stiffness, weakness, or a mobility concern and you're not sure whether telehealth is the right starting point, a visit is the most efficient way to find out. Your provider will be direct about what can be addressed remotely and what needs in-person evaluation first.
What telehealth can and can't do for MSK
💻 An honest look at what a video visit offers
Published clinical guidance describes how clinicians can perform selected components of a musculoskeletal assessment by video — including observation of gait, posture, active movement, and functional tasks. The reliability and usefulness of those observations depend on the condition, video quality, and whether hands-on examination is needed. A telehealth evaluation is a clinically meaningful starting point for many MSK concerns, but it is not a replacement for in-person examination and has real limitations.
| What telehealth can contribute | What requires in-person evaluation |
|---|---|
| Clinical history — symptom location, character, timeline, aggravating and relieving factors, and functional impact | Palpation — hands-on assessment of tendons, joints, trigger points, and bony landmarks |
| Observation of active movement, posture, gait, and limited functional strength against gravity by video | Manual muscle testing, stability testing, and resistance-based strength assessment |
| Medication review — assessing current medications for appropriateness, interactions, and side effects | Joint injection or aspiration — corticosteroid, hyaluronic acid, or PRP require an in-person procedure |
| Red flag screening — identifying symptoms that require imaging, specialist referral, or urgent in-person evaluation | X-ray, MRI, CT, ultrasound — all require an in-person imaging facility |
| General activity guidance and discussion of home movement when medically appropriate | Manual therapy — joint mobilization, soft tissue manipulation, and hands-on rehabilitation require in-person PT or specialist |
| Non-controlled medication management when clinically appropriate | Surgical evaluation — requires in-person orthopedic or specialist assessment |
| Recommendation of imaging or specialist evaluation, and a referral or order when operationally available | Individualized PT rehabilitation and exercise progression — formal rehabilitation requires a licensed physical therapist in person |
For many common MSK concerns, the first step isn't a procedure
For many common uncomplicated musculoskeletal conditions, initial care involves activity guidance, exercise or physical therapy referral, symptom management, and monitoring — rather than immediate procedures or surgery. A medical evaluation is the right starting point to determine which path applies to your situation.
Ready to get a clear clinical picture of what's going on and what to do next?
Start a VisitA note on medications
💊 What you should know before discussing pain medication
Non-controlled medications can play a useful role in managing musculoskeletal pain, but they all carry considerations your provider will review with you. We do not prescribe controlled substances — including opioids, carisoprodol, or benzodiazepines — through this service.
- NSAIDs (oral anti-inflammatories) NSAIDs are not appropriate for everyone. A provider will review kidney disease, history of ulcers or GI bleeding, heart disease or heart failure, blood pressure, blood thinners, and other medications before prescribing. NSAIDs should generally be avoided around 20 weeks of pregnancy or later unless specifically directed by an appropriate clinician, due to risks to fetal kidney development. Do not combine multiple NSAIDs unless specifically instructed. Long-term use carries additional risks that should be reviewed periodically.
- Topical anti-inflammatories Topical NSAIDs may be appropriate for selected localized pain and generally result in less systemic exposure than oral NSAIDs. Wash hands after application, avoid eyes and mucous membranes, and do not apply to broken or irritated skin. Do not combine with an oral NSAID without clinical guidance. Skin reactions are possible.
- Muscle relaxants Some muscle relaxants can cause significant drowsiness, dizziness, falls, and impaired driving. They should not be combined with alcohol, sleep medications, opioids, or other sedatives unless a licensed provider confirms it is safe. When used, they are typically considered only for selected short-term situations and are not appropriate for long-term chronic pain management.
- Acetaminophen Acetaminophen may be considered for selected patients, although its effectiveness varies by condition. Excessive dosing can cause severe liver injury — do not combine multiple acetaminophen-containing products (including combination cold, sleep, or pain medications) or exceed the recommended daily limit. Alcohol use increases liver risk.
What to expect
🗓️ Your musculoskeletal visit, start to finish
Here's how a visit for joint pain, back pain, mobility, or strength concerns typically unfolds. Coming prepared makes a real difference.
|
1
Describe your symptoms specifically
Where is it? When did it start? What makes it worse or better? Does it affect sleep, work, or daily activities? Have you had imaging? Prior physical therapy? The more specific you can be, the more useful the evaluation. |
2
Be ready to show movement if asked
Your provider may ask you to demonstrate active range of motion, perform a simple functional movement, or walk while on camera. Wear comfortable clothing and have some open floor space. Do not perform any movement that feels unsafe, causes severe pain, or creates a fall risk. If balance is a concern, have a support person nearby. The provider observes — this is not equivalent to hands-on examination. |
3
Clinical evaluation & assessment
Your provider reviews your history, observes movement where useful, screens for red flags, and works through the most likely contributors to your symptoms. They'll be direct about what telehealth can assess and what needs in-person follow-up. |
4
Leave with a clear next step
Activity guidance, medication recommendation, physical therapy referral, imaging recommendation, or specialist referral — or a combination. You leave knowing what to do next, not just what might eventually help. |
Bring any existing imaging or reports
If you've had X-rays, MRI, or other imaging done — even years ago — those results provide useful clinical context. Prior physical therapy evaluation or discharge summaries are also helpful. Your provider can review what's been done and advise whether additional imaging or evaluation is needed, and a formal order or referral when that is operationally available.
A note on post-surgical care
After any surgical procedure, the operating surgeon's restrictions, wound instructions, and prescribed rehabilitation timeline take precedence. A MyPhysician360 provider may review general medical concerns or identify warning signs, but will not independently alter weight-bearing restrictions or the prescribed rehabilitation plan. Formal post-surgical rehabilitation should be provided by the surgical team or a licensed physical therapist.
How we can help
🏪 Medical evaluation, non-controlled treatment, and the right referral
A licensed physician or NP can review your symptoms, assess possible causes, screen for warning signs, discuss appropriate non-controlled treatment, and recommend physical therapy, imaging, or specialist evaluation when indicated. When prescription treatment is clinically appropriate, it may be sent electronically to your pharmacy.
- ✓Physician and NP evaluation of musculoskeletal symptoms and functional concerns
- ✓Medication review and non-controlled treatment options when appropriate
- ✓Red flag screening — identifying symptoms that need imaging, PT, or specialist care
- ✓Physical therapy, imaging, or specialist recommendation and referral when operationally available
- ✓No controlled substances prescribed through this service
- ✓No required membership to access our telehealth services
- ✓Visits may be HSA/FSA eligible — check with your plan administrator
Frequently asked questions
❓ Your questions answered
Can telehealth really help with joint and muscle pain?
Yes — for many non-emergency musculoskeletal concerns, a physician or NP telehealth evaluation can provide meaningful clinical value. A structured video visit can capture useful information through observation of active movement, posture, gait, and a detailed history. Published clinical guidance describes ways to perform selected components of a musculoskeletal exam by video. What telehealth cannot replace is hands-on palpation, formal manual muscle testing, imaging, joint injection, or in-person physical therapy. Your provider will be honest about which category your situation falls into.
Do you have physical therapists on staff?
No. MyPhysician360 visits are provided by licensed physicians (MDs and DOs) and nurse practitioners. When physical therapy is the appropriate next step — which it often is for musculoskeletal conditions — your provider will recommend a local licensed physical therapist. Formal rehabilitation, hands-on treatment, individualized exercise progression, and manual therapy require in-person care with a licensed PT.
Will I need imaging before my visit?
Not necessarily. Imaging is not automatically needed for every episode of pain and may not identify the cause of symptoms — the decision depends on trauma history, examination findings, duration, neurologic symptoms, and whether the results would change management. Many musculoskeletal concerns can be meaningfully evaluated through clinical history and symptom assessment without imaging as a first step. If imaging is indicated, your provider can recommend appropriate imaging and, where operationally available, provide an order or referral.
I've been told I might need surgery. Can telehealth help?
Surgical decisions require in-person evaluation by an orthopedic surgeon or relevant specialist. A telehealth visit cannot provide surgical clearance or replace that assessment. That said, a visit may help you review your symptoms and understand your options, prepare better questions for your specialist consultation, and confirm whether conservative treatment has been adequately explored. Do not delay time-sensitive surgical care based on a general telehealth consultation.
Can you prescribe pain medications?
A provider can evaluate and prescribe selected non-controlled medications when clinically appropriate — including NSAIDs and topical anti-inflammatories. MyPhysician360 does not prescribe controlled substances through this service, including opioids, carisoprodol, or benzodiazepines. Medications carry risks that your provider will review with you before prescribing. For complex or refractory pain, referral to a pain specialist is the appropriate path.
I've had this pain for years. Is it too late for a telehealth evaluation to help?
It is not necessarily too late to benefit from evaluation. For long-standing pain, the goal may be to improve function, reduce symptom burden, identify overlooked contributors, and connect you with appropriate long-term care — rather than promise complete pain relief. In many cases, patients haven't had a focused medical review of contributing factors, a medication assessment, or guidance on physical therapy. A provider can help clarify what's been tried, what hasn't, and what the most useful next step looks like from where you are now.
Is this visit HSA or FSA eligible?
Visits may be eligible — check with your plan administrator to confirm based on your specific plan.
Pain and stiffness don't have to be the plan. Let's identify the right next step.
A licensed physician or nurse practitioner can review your symptoms, assess possible causes, screen for warning signs, discuss appropriate non-controlled treatment, and recommend physical therapy, imaging, or specialist evaluation — from home, without a waiting room.
HSA & FSA eligible — check with your plan administrator | No required membership
Medical disclaimer: The information on this page is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. MyPhysician360 visits are provided by licensed physicians and nurse practitioners; MyPhysician360 does not employ physical therapists. When physical therapy is appropriate, a provider may recommend it and, when operationally available, provide a referral or order — referral requirements, insurance coverage, and local access vary. Musculoskeletal conditions vary widely in severity and not all can be adequately evaluated or managed through telehealth. Call 911 or go immediately to the nearest emergency department for major trauma, severe limb deformity with loss of circulation or sensation, sudden paralysis, uncontrolled bleeding, chest pain, severe shortness of breath, fainting, or new urinary retention, loss of bladder or bowel control, saddle-area numbness, or rapidly progressive leg weakness. Seek urgent same-day in-person evaluation for inability to bear weight after injury, possible fracture, suspected dislocation, hot and rapidly swollen joint with fever, sudden marked weakness or numbness, new one-sided leg swelling with warmth or tenderness, severe muscle symptoms with dark urine, or head injury in someone on blood thinners or with neurological symptoms. MyPhysician360 does not prescribe controlled substances, including opioids, carisoprodol, or benzodiazepines, through this service. NSAIDs should generally be avoided around 20 weeks of pregnancy or later unless directed by a clinician. All medications carry risks that a provider will review before prescribing. After surgery, the operating surgeon's restrictions and rehabilitation plan take precedence. Whether any specific treatment is appropriate depends on individual health history and a licensed provider's clinical judgment; nothing on this page constitutes a guarantee of any prescription, diagnosis, or specific treatment. MyPhysician360's ability to provide care depends on the patient's physical location and applicable licensure rules. A licensed MyPhysician360 provider will review your complete health history before making any clinical recommendations. Services are not currently available in Mississippi or Alaska.