Rehabilitative Ultrasonic Imaging
We are proud to offer Rehabilitative Ultrasonic Imaging (RUSI) in assisting us to diagnose and treat lumbopelvic pain.
RUSI uses ultrasound technology to create images of the musculature and structures of the abdominal and pelvic cavities, and the low back. These images are real time pictures of what is happening inside. The physical therapist uses the images to identify bony structures, organs, muscles, and fascia; view the function and movement of the muscles; and correlate the image findings with other examination findings and the patient’s subjective complaints. This creates a full functional picture of the patient’s dysfunction and allows the therapist to create an even more individualized and detailed treatment plan.
In addition to assisting the physical therapist in the diagnosis of dysfunction, RUSI can be used within the treatment for improving muscle reeducation and patient education through biofeedback. The patient can see on the screen what they are doing with their muscles, while at the same time feeling what they are doing and improving coordination with verbal and manual instruction from the physical therapist.
The RUSI system can be used to treat men and women with the following diagnoses:
Diastatsis Rectus Abdominus (DRA)- RUSI is used to view and measure the split along the linea alba following pregnancy. Exercise performed during imaging can contribute to increased stability and improved neuromuscular control of the abdominal wall.
Pelvic Floor Muscle Dysfunction- RUSI can be used to image the pelvic floor, identifying poor muscle control and coordination that can lead to pain and weakness.
Incontinence- RUSI can be used to measure bladder volume, post-void residual urine in the bladder, bladder position (cystocele), and muscle function of the pelvic floor musculature.
Chronic Constipation/Difficulty with Defecation- RUSI can identify muscle dysfunction around the rectum, rectocele, and volume of stool in the rectum. This information, along with biofeedback from the RUSI system, can improve bowel function.
Low Back Pain- RUSI can be used to measure the size and activation of the multifidus muscles which help to stabilize the spine as well as activation of the abdominal core musculature. Coordination of these muscle groups aids in easing back pain and reducing chances of recurring back pain.
Pediatric pelvic floor problems- RUSI allows pelvic floor physical therapists to image the pediatric pelvic floor where internal muscle examination is contraindicated. For children who have difficulty with passing stool or coordinating muscles for effective emptying of the bladder RUSI is a game changer.
RUSI utilizes sound waves to produce its images rather than ionizing radiation. That means that it is safe to use with all populations, including pregnant women, children, those with history of cancers, and those with pacemakers or other medical devices or implants.
Costs:
Diagnostic RUSI: $100. Your doctor may refer you to us for a Diagnostic RUSI. This may include imaging of the abdominal wall, bladder, pelvic floor and low back. It includes objective measurements of muscle activation for all areas as well as volume measurements for the bladder while full and post-void residual volume as ordered by your physician, nurse, midwife, or chiropractor.
RUSI as part of a physical therapy plan of care: Your therapist may choose to use the RUSI system as part of your physical therapy evaluation and treatment plan. Our clients are billed based on the amount of time our therapists spend with them. Use of the RUSI system for diagnostics or for treatment is billed within your appointment time. For example: Your appointment consists of RUSI for diagnostic imaging and biofeedback training, instruction in exercise, and manual therapy techniques. The total appointment time is 1 hour, and is billed at our usual rate of $160.00.