Real-time ultrasound imaging (RTUS), also known as ultrasonography, is traditionally and extensively used in medical fields to examine blood vessels, body cavities, glands, and other tissues. In addition to radiology, RTUS is also used in the investigation of musculoskeletal pathology. With ultrasound machines, it is possible to image tissues like tendons, ligaments, muscles, joints, and bursae.
One major advantage of ultrasonography is the ability to observe the movement of anatomical structures as it actually occurs. The ability of RTUS to penetrate deep into soft tissues and provide good spatial resolution has expanded medical imaging well beyond the “traditional” radiology setting. Today, real-time imaging is used by radiologists as well as other medical professionals to obtain imaging diagnosis and for therapeutic intervention.
What is Real-Time Ultrasound Imaging?
RTUS uses high-frequency sound waves to produce dynamic visual images. A transducer is placed on your skin and creates and records soundwaves from your internal body organs. The sound waves are then collected and displayed as real-time images on a computer screen. Consequently, ultrasonography is used by physiotherapists as a biofeedback tool to visualise the contraction of deep or ‘core’ muscles.
How Can Ultrasonography Help You?
Core muscles are critical for stabilising the pelvis and spinal column. Not only do they keep you upright which is essential to your appearance but also ensure optimal health and strength. Unfortunately, these muscles are located deep in the body making them difficult to feel and see with most technology. However, with ultrasonography, you and your physiotherapist can observe and assess the efficiency of contractions as they occur. In addition to this, real time ultrasound imaging can also be used as a biofeedback tool to educate you on proper muscle contraction timing and sequence during exercise.
With this technology, you can watch your inner muscles contract and relax during exercise. This helps you to recognise the sensation of correctly contracting your core muscles, allowing you to train the muscles efficiently. After the assessment, the physiotherapist will design an individualised training program to meet your needs. The program can tone your core muscles to protect and support the spine as well as improve overall strength.
Who Can Benefit from Real-Time Ultrasound Imaging?
Patients whose spinal pain has not eased with deep muscle training, therapy, yoga or pilates are great candidates for real time ultrasound imaging. The technology can also benefit people who have:
• Poor core stability
• Low back pain
• Sacroiliac joint (SIJ) dysfunction
• Pelvic floor incontinence
• Sacroiliac joint (SIJ) dysfunction
• Sportsmen/women with osteitis pubis
Ultrasonography is not just for people with pain. Anyone including athletes can benefit from an RTUS assessment. It can also help:
• Athletes who want to know if they are using their core muscles effectively. This includes identifying overuse or underuse of the core muscles.
• Athletes who have repetitive tightness in muscles that is not improving with treatment.
• Athletes increase prevention of injury and improve performance.
To book your appointment for Real-Time Ultrasound Imaging, contact the experienced team of physiotherapists at Turramurra Physiotherapy today on 9144 1510.
