Core Therapeutics PT is thrilled to add the technology of Real-Time Ultrasound (RTUS) to our clinical services.  Core PT is the first physical therapy clinic north of Seattle to have this technology and we use it as assessment as well as neuromuscular re-education for our clients.

How is Real-Time Ultrasound helpful for Rehabilitation or Wellness?
RTUS is a technology used by physical therapists in research and clinical environments to assess if muscles are contracting effectively and for the client to actually see their muscles contract during static and dynamic activities.  Research has established that the muscles of the pelvic floor, transverse abdominis (TA) and deep fibers of the Multifidus (dMF) are key muscles for continence, spine stability, pain prevention and daily function.  Since there are other muscles that lie over the dMF and TA, simply touching or looking at the spine or abdomen cannot confirm proper contraction of these key muscles.  RTUS enables the client and clinician assurance that the muscles are contracting effectively at rest and during dynamic activities.

RTUS for Movement Practitioners and Bodyworkers
Movement practitioners as well as body worker from disciplines such as Pilates, Yoga, Gyrotonics, structural medicine and massage have found RTUS to be critical in confirming effective recruitment and timing of key musculature for themselves and their clients.  RTUS visualizes effective and appropriate  core muscle activation as well as training of palpation and observation skills that integrate beautifully back into their daily practice.

When do the PT's use RTUS?
The ability of the muscles to contract is just as important as the timing of the muscle contractions compared to the larger, global muscles of the body.  Your Core Therapeutics PT  can use the technology of RTUS as part of our comprehensive evaluation and treatment program to assess muscle function as well as to teach our clients what cueing and body positions facilitate the contractions of these muscles.  Research from University of Queensland in Australia has shown that as few as 10 rehearsed proper contractions of key core muscles have a continued post-training effect to improve function and muscle memory.

How should I prepare for RTUS?
If your Core Therapeutics PT plans to use the RTUS for your pelvic floor muscles, you should drink up to 16 ounces of water one hour before your appointment to enable optimal visualization of muscle function.