Real Time Ultrasound (RTUS)

Real Time Ultrasound

What is it?

RTUS is the use of diagnostic ultrasound, in real time, to assess muscle and ligament function within the body. It is a non-invasive way to assess pelvic floor and abdominal muscle function and can be used to check for muscle contraction whilst performing different functional activities.

Pelvic Floor Muscle assessment

RTUS can be used for assessment of pelvic floor muscle (PFM) function or dysfunction in women, men and children. It is a relatively non-invasive way to check for PF muscle endurance and functional timing which means we can check if muscles are working and supporting with squats, lifting and other functional tasks. It is a great tool to provide instant biofeedback to our patients to support them with their PFM training so they can learn how to activate correctly for then practicing at home. RTUS can be helpful in the assessment of 

  • Incontinence
  • Symptoms of urinary urgency and frequency
  • Pre and Post Radical Prostatectomy
  • Pre and Post other pelvic surgery or hysterectomy
  • Pelvic girdle pain
  • Pre- and Post-natal women
  • Persistent Pelvic Pain

RTUS can be used to calculate bladder volumes including Post Void Residual (PVR) which can be helpful to identify causes of bladder or urinary symptoms. To discuss how a RTUS PFM assessment could benefit you please contact Jen Vardy, our Continence and Women’s Health Physiotherapist.

Abdominal Muscle assessment

RTUS can be used to assess activation of our deep stabilising abdominal muscles. Many sufferers of chronic or persistent pain poorly activate their TrA and PFM and tend to breath hold when physical demands increase which places further strain on their spine and pelvis. The RTUS can provide helpful biofeedback to our patients to improve the function of their ‘core’ muscles and to improve their timing and co-contraction. It can be helpful in conditions such as

  • Lower back pain
  • Disc or degenerative issues of the spine and hip
  • Gluteal tendinopathy
  • Sacro-iliac joint dysfunction
  • Leg and pelvic overuse injuries (e.g. osteitis pubis)

What should I do beforehand?

An hour prior to your RTUS assessment you should empty your bladder and then drink 1-2 glasses of water. This will allow your bladder to be partially full and make it easier to view your PFM and abdominal muscles without being uncomfortable.

What is the cost and how do I book in?

An RTUS assessment may require an extended session and will include education and a detailed exercise program to continue your training at home. 

Please contact us to enquire more regarding a RTUS assessment of your pelvic floor or abdominal muscle function on 9751 0400.