RealTime

LEADERS IN MUSCULOSkELETAL PHYSIOTHERAPY

RINGWOOD PHYSIOTHERAPY AND SPINAL CLINIC

Real-time Ultrasound

How can Real Time Ultrasound Imaging help me?

Physiotherapists assess the deep muscle corset using real time ultrasound imaging to view and measure muscle problems. A specialized exercise program designed to meet the needs of each individual patient is developed. This gentle program tones the deep muscles of the trunk to protect and support the spine. With the ultrasound, patients will actually be able to watch the inner muscles contracting during exercise.

Is there evidence to support Ultrasound and Segmental Stabalisation Training?

Ongoing research has confirmed the importance of spinal segmental muscular control and highlights how, with acute low back pain, inhibition of these muscles occurs at a segmental level.

Research has demonstrated motor control problems in the tranversus abdominis muscle during the presence of low back pain. This is evidenced by an inability to activate the corset like contraction.

Clinical research has proven that the specific exercises shown to you by your physiotherapist is effective in the management of pain and prevention of recurrence.

Abstract from The Journal of Manual & Manipulative Therapy Vol. 12 No. 1 (2004), 44 - 49

Jackie Whittaker, BScPT, FCAMT, CAFCI

Abstract: Research reveals that the primary impairment of the muscular system in individuals with low back pain is not one of strength or functional capacity but rather one of motor control of the deep muscles of the trunk. These deep muscles include the transversus abdominis, the deep segmental fibers of lumbar multifidus, the pelvic floor, and the diaphragm. Advances in knowledge regarding load transfer in the lumbopelvic region have provided the orthopaedic manual therapist with the necessary tools to assess most components of lumbopelvic dysfunction with the exclusion of an evaluation technique for pelvic floor motor control. The use of ultrasound imaging to observe the real-time contraction of muscles is a valuable tool, specifically when the muscles of interest are deep and not readily observable.

What is Real Time Ultrasound Imaging?

Ultrasound (US) or sonography involves the sending of sound waves through the body. Those sound waves are reflected off the internal body parts. The reflections are then interpreted by special instruments that subsequently create an image of anatomic parts.

Who will benefit from Ultrasound Imaging?

Ringwood Physiotherapy & Spinal Clinic is available to assist with the management of patients with low back pain. These include patients of all age groups who may be experiencing:

· Mechanical back pain: sub-acute, recurrent and chronic

· Osteoarthritic conditions

· Obstetric back pain

· Pre & post spinal surgery

What is Segmental Stabalisation Training?

Segmental Stabalisation Training consists of re-activation of the inhibited tranversus abdominis muscle surrounding your spine to form a muscular corset.

What do I have to do?

You should wear comfortable, lose fitting clothing for your ultrasound examination. No other preparation is required.

What is the procedure?

Three ultrasound existed examinations will be conducted to assist in your rehabilitation. The initial examination will be used to provide a baseline measure of your transverses abdominis activation, the second examination occurs 1 week later and the third will occur 6 weeks later. Each examination lasts 30 minutes.

What does it cost?

Each consultation costs $90.00. You will need to consult your health fund for information about whether your cover will include real-time ultrasound examinations. All compensable patients will require prior approval from DVA, WorkCover or TAC.