Real Time Ultrasound Scanning

 

What is ultrasound scanning?

The Studio has the same type of ultrasound scanner as the ones used inobstetrics. Using this device, we image the three layers of your lower abdominals. We then watch as they contract, observing their patterning, quality of contraction and your ability to isolate the Transversus Abdominus muscle.  .

We can then observe and assess your ability to maintain a contraction while breathing, moving, sitting and standing.

 We also use RTU to help you relearn how to use the deep muscles of your hip as well if you are suffering with osteoarthritis or a painful hip that has caused weakness in the supporting muscles of the your hip.  The deepest layers of your muscle system are often difficult to contract and hard to feel - the visual feedback you get with RTU is a powerful tool to help you find and strengthen these often ellusive muscles.

 Why get your abdominals scanned? Transverse abdominus is  the muscle that will flatten your lower abdomen and is the only one of your four abdominal muscles that directly stabilises the spine, reducing back pain. It is therefore important that you are able to contract this muscle specifically and in isolation of the other abdominals to achieve a flatter abdomen and reduce lower back pain.
 Spinal stability is also fundamental to the stability, strength, coordination and function of the limbs, therefore reducing wear on these joints and preventing recurrent muscle strain.
Even if you have been scanned on your initial visit to the studio, it is important to have regular scans to check you are correctly activating yourTransversus Abdominus. Your progress can then be monitored and suggestions will be given for taking your TA to the next level. Remember, if you are not activating Transversus Abdominus correctly you will not get the results you want from Pilates.

                      
Fees:

Real-time ultrasound will be part of your treatment if you are attending for physiotherapy and the cost of the scan is included in your treatment fee.

You may require to have a scan on it's own to check your progress:

Stand alone scans: (15 mins)

 $70 (Fee may change according to whichPhysiotherapist conducts the scan).  Fees are claimable on your Private Health Fund.