Rehabilitative Ultrasound Imaging: When Is a Picture Necessary?

Deydre S. Teyhen, Maj John D. Childs, Timothy W. Flynn

DOI: 10.2519/jospt.2007.0109

In this issue of the journal, we explore rehabilitative ultrasound imaging's potential as a tool that physical therapists use in examining low back muscle function. As an assessment tool, RUSI can assist practitioners in recognizing impairments such as a decreased ability to increase muscle thickness (eg, transversus abdominis or multifidus) during specific physical tasks, excessive use of more global muscles (eg, rectus abdominis or erector spinae muscles) during low-level activities, and muscular atrophy. Identifying these impairments can help practitioners formulate a specific exercise program matched to the patient's underlying impairments during early stages of rehabilitation. From a treatment perspective, RUSI can provide feedback to both the physical therapist and patient that may help determine which verbal or tactile cues are most effective to facilitate proper performance of therapeutic exercises during the early phase of rehabilitation. Additionally, it may assist physical therapists in their decision-making process related to exercise prescription and progression. Finally, RUSI may help determine when specific impairments have been sufficiently addressed to permit the exercise progression necessary to achieve maximal pain-free function.

J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2007;37(10):579-580. doi:10.2519/jospt.2007.0109

KEY WORDS: rehabilitative ultrasound imaging, low back

In this issue of the journal, JOSPT explores rehabilitative ultrasound imaging's potential as a tool that physical therapists use in examining low back muscle function.

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