Newsflash

Physiotherapy and Medical Practioner positions available now.
 
Home arrow Real Time Ultrasound
Real Time Ultrasound Print E-mail
ImageReal Time Ultrasound imaging of the stabilising muscles of the lumbar spine is now available at Territory Sportsmedicine.
The service conducted by a physiotherapist is ideal for accurate, objective assessment and biofeedback training of the vital stabilising muscles. Patients will receive a copy of their image and instruction for retraining.

Who Will Benefit From Ultrasound Imaging?
Patients of all ages who may have:
  • Poor core stability• Mechanical back pain
  • O.A conditions
  • Obstetric back pain
  • Pre and Post spinal surgery

What is Segmental Stabilisation Training?
Segmental stabilisation training involves re-activation of inhibited Transversus Abdominis with co-contraction of Multifidus and pelvic floor.

How can Real Time Ultrasound Help Me?
Physiotherapists assess the deep muscle corset using Ultrasound. The muscle is viewed at rest and contracting. A specialised exercise program is then designed to meet the individual needs of the patient. This gentle program tones the deep muscles to protect and support the spine.

Research:
Ongoing research has confirmed the importance of spinal segmental muscular control and highlights how, with acute back pain, inhibition of these muscles occurs at a segmental level.
Research has demonstrated motor control problems in the Transversus Abdominis muscle during presence of low back pain. This is evidenced by an inability to activate a corset like contraction.
Clinical research is showing that specific exercises shown to you by your physiotherapist may be effective in the management of pain and prevention of recurrence.

Abstract from the Journal of Manual and 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 if 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 Do I Wear?
Comfortable loose fitting clothes are most suitable for conducting ultrasound assessments, no other preparation is needed.

What is the Procedure?
Ideally 2-3 assisted examinations will be conducted. The initial examination will provide a baseline measure of Transversus Abdominis activation. You may require a follow-up 1-2 weeks later with a third visit 6 weeks after that. Each examination will take up to 30-40 minutes.

What Does It Cost?
Each consultation will be a standard physiotherapist visit and an additional $35. You will be eligible for a private health fund rebate. All compensation patients will require insurance company approval prior to undergoing treatment.
 
[ Back ]