REHABILITATIVE ULTRASOUND IMAGING (RUSI)
Sometimes a picture is worth a thousand words…
Rehabilitative Ultrasound Imaging (RUSI) is a safe, noninvasive tool used by Physical Therapists to evaluate and train muscles. RUSI uses the same technology as ultrasound imaging during pregnancy to create real time images of your muscles working during exercise. This can be especially helpful when learning to coordinate your deep core muscles that support your pelvis, abdomen and spine. Often, these muscle groups can be difficult to feel and recruit after injury, surgery or having a baby. Normalizing the function of these muscle groups is essential to a full recovery.
Natalie Graham, PT
Natalie has worked in acute care, skilled care, rehabilitation and outpatient clinics treating orthopedic and pelvic conditions. She has provided instruction for pelvic floor credentialing classes through the APTA. Her diverse experience serves as a basis for developing superior personalized treatment.
RUSI allows YOU to see your own muscles in action. With this information, we can objectively evaluate your performance together and give specific exercises so you feel better faster!
Marie Long, PT, COMT, ASTYM
Marie provides complete patient care through development of individualized plans integrating education, self-care techniques, home programs, and specialized manual therapy. Areas of interest include a variety of musculoskeletal dysfunctions including acute and chronic spinal pain, headaches, upper cervical pain, and the extremities.
What to Expect When Coming to Connect PT for Pelvic Wellness
Our goal is to provide you with a treatment plan that takes into account your needs and lifestyle while empowering you to return to health and activity.
Physical Therapy can assist with these common postpartum conditions:
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Loss of urinary and/ or bowel control
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Abdominal muscle separation / Diastasis Rectus Abdominus (DRA)
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Neck, mid or low back pain and other musculoskeletal issues
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Pelvic pain or pressure
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Sexual pain / dysfunction
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C-section or perineal scar pain / sensitivity
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Breast engorgement / mastitis
Our role as physical therapists is to evaluate where you are in your recovery process and support and guide you in your goals.
Your PT program will reflect your specific needs and will often include:
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Pelvic floor and core muscle training
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Exercises and movement pattern recommendations to address abdominal muscle separation
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Rehabilitative ultrasound imaging (RUSI) for feedback in retraining weak abdominal and pelvic floor muscles
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Preparation for return to sex, exercise, work, and other activities
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Posture and body mechanics recommendations for activities of daily living and babycare
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Scar tissue care, mobilization, and desensitization
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Bladder and/ or Bowel management and training
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If breastfeeding, ultrasound treatment for painful breast engorgement or mastitis