Real Time Ultrasound Imaging

What is it?

Real Time Ultrasound Imaging or RTUSI is a tool for imaging muscles. It is similar to an Ultrasound Scan for expectant mothers in that it is safe, effective and non-invasive (i.e. doesn’t hurt!). Your physiotherapist will apply an ultrasound transducer (probe) with a small amount of gel to the area being scanned. The image of the muscle will then appear on the screen for you and your physio to see.

What are the benefits of using RTUSI?

When you are injured, it is common for muscles around the injury to lose strength. This is particularly common in people suffering from lower back injuries. To help you recover from your injury, it is often necessary to strengthen these muscles again. Your physiotherapist will teach you exercises to do this, however in some cases the muscle has become so weak, it is difficult to learn how to even start exercising it. This is where RTUSI comes in. By having a real-time picture of the muscle appearing on the screen in front of you, you are able to see whether you are exercising the right muscle. Once you get the feel for the exercise, you will be able to do your exercises effectively in your own time. If you learn to exercise the muscle you are targeting, you will have a quicker recovery from your injury.

When should someone try RTUSI?

The use of ultrasound for core rehabilitation is best for those people who have had long term (greater than one month) pain of the back, buttock or hip, recurrent pain in these areas, following a diagnosis of lumbar instability or if current rehab protocols are not working. 

Although currently RTUSI is being used predominantly for core rehabilitation, it is equally useful for people with pelvic floor weakness or breathing problems such as hyperventilation.