Preparing Patients – Space And Equipment

The following table provides general recommendations for patient space and equipment needs in a musculoskeletal telehealth assessment.

Patient space & equipment suggestions for telehealth

Body PartRecommendations
Lower extremity & Low backSPACE: 6-8 feet (3-4 metres) of walking space in front of the camera
EQUIPMENT: firm chair with arms for sitting activity; firm surface to lie on (e.g. bed, yoga mat, couch); stable waist-level support for standing activities e.g. railing, furniture, counter, kitchen sink
ShoulderSPACE: 5 feet in front of camera so can move arm(s) in all directions
EQUIPMENT: wall to help with movements; light weights, household items (e.g. cans, broom stick, spatula, keys, keyboard)
NeckSPACE: 3 feet in front of camera
EQUIPMENT: Firm chair with back support
Elbow or handSPACE: 3 feet in front of camera
EQUIPMENT: Table to rest hand(s) on and show movements

*This table was modified from Bone & Joint Canada Virtual Assessment of Musculoskeletal Conditions: completing a clinical assessment.