In the last decade, one significant innovation has been the utilisation of of diagnostic ultrasound in in healthcare. It is a excellent tool to visualise organs, muscles and tendons, and particularly dynamic relationships among tissues, without radiation, such that ultrasound machines are viewed as the new stethoscopes.
For example, we use ultrasound to diagnose and confirm tendonitis ( inflammation of a tendon) versus tendinosis (degradation of a tendon), and with that understanding, devise targeted treatment and exercise programs, e.g. to reduce inflammation or stimulate repair; to rest or exercise, or a heavier load versus longer hold when exercising, etc.
In women’s health, we use ultrasound to evaluate the extent of diastasis recti (abdominal muscle separation, see pictures below), and assist in the visualisation of bladder control while performing pelvic floor exercises.
In patients with chronic low back pain, ultrasound is used to help patients visualise and train ideal patterns of core muscle activation.
