What Is Dry Needling - Intramuscular Stimulation (IMS)

Dry Needling, otherwise known as Intramuscular Stimulation (IMS), is a therapeutic treatment method that involves using mono-filament needles (acupuncture needles) that are placed into muscle trigger points. Trigger points are very tight and irritable spots in the muscle band that are causing the client pain. When trigger points cause pain for long enough, this can cause dysfunction of the nervous system – which increases the pain response further. By alleviating these trigger points, the body can begin to heal the nervous system and you will start to experience pain relief.

When our highly skilled IMS certified Physiotherapists begin to alleviate your pain with dry needling, you can expect the twitch response to cause biochemical changes within the muscle and reduce muscle tension. This is done through modulation of the central and peripheral nervous systems. Inserting the acupuncture needle into the muscle increases blood flow to the area for several hours after the treatment; this helps provide oxygen and nutrients to the malnourished trigger point. The twitch sensation begins to deactivate the trigger point – this reduces pain and improves the tissues' healing and recovery process.

Intramuscular Stimulation (IMS) is a total system for both the diagnosis and treatment of myofascial pain. IMS relies heavily on a very thorough patient physical examination by a trained practitioner who can recognize the physical signs of neuropathic pain. This physical exam is crucial since chronic pain is often neurological (as opposed to structural) and is not visible on any sources of imaging. The IMS treatment uses acupuncture needles because they are able to penetrate deep within muscle tissue. The acupuncture needles specifically target injured muscles that have contracted and become shortened from distress. The needle sites can be at the centre of muscle bands, or they can be near the spine where the nerve root may have become irritated and hypersensitive. Acupuncture on a normal muscle is painless, but a shortened, hypersensitive muscle will ‘grasp’ the needle, and this may cause a cramping sensation. The goal of IMS treatment is to release muscle shortening. Supersensitive areas can be desensitized, and the persistent pull of shortened muscles can be released. IMS is very effective for releasing shortened muscles. When competently performed, IMS has a remarkable success rate.

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Dry Needling - Intramuscular Stimulation (IMS)

Experience the Healing Touch of Dry Needling

What Is Dry Needling - Intramuscular Stimulation (IMS)

Dry Needling, otherwise known as Intramuscular Stimulation (IMS), is a therapeutic treatment method that involves using mono-filament needles (acupuncture needles) that are placed into muscle trigger points. Trigger points are very tight and irritable spots in the muscle band that are causing the client pain.

When trigger points cause pain for long enough, this can cause dysfunction of the nervous system – which increases the pain response further. By alleviating these trigger points, the body can begin to heal the nervous system and you will start to experience pain relief.
What It Entails

When our highly skilled IMS certified Physiotherapists begin to alleviate your pain with dry needling, you can expect the twitch response to cause biochemical changes within the muscle and reduce muscle tension. This is done through modulation of the central and peripheral nervous systems.

Inserting the acupuncture needle into the muscle increases blood flow to the area for several hours after the treatment; this helps provide oxygen and nutrients to the malnourished trigger point. The twitch sensation begins to deactivate the trigger point – this reduces pain and improves the tissues' healing and recovery process.
The Approach

Intramuscular Stimulation (IMS) is a total system for both the diagnosis and treatment of myofascial pain. IMS relies heavily on a very thorough patient physical examination by a trained practitioner who can recognize the physical signs of neuropathic pain. This physical exam is crucial since chronic pain is often neurological (as opposed to structural) and is not visible on any sources of imaging.

The IMS treatment uses acupuncture needles because they are able to penetrate deep within muscle tissue. The acupuncture needles specifically target injured muscles that have contracted and become shortened from distress. The needle sites can be at the centre of muscle bands, or they can be near the spine where the nerve root may have become irritated and hypersensitive. Acupuncture on a normal muscle is painless, but a shortened, hypersensitive muscle will ‘grasp’ the needle, and this may cause a cramping sensation.

The goal of IMS treatment is to release muscle shortening. Supersensitive areas can be desensitized, and the persistent pull of shortened muscles can be released. IMS is very effective for releasing shortened muscles. When competently performed, IMS has a remarkable success rate.

Book an Appointment

Effective Pain Management

Dry Needling - Intramuscular Stimulation (IMS) is a powerful tool for managing chronic pain. By targeting specific trigger points, it can provide immediate relief, significantly improving your overall quality of life and daily functioning.

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Enhanced Mobility and Flexibility

IMS works by relieving muscle tension and spasms, which can restrict movement. By addressing these issues, it can significantly enhance your flexibility and range of motion, enabling a more active and fulfilling lifestyle.

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Promotes Faster Healing

IMS stimulates the body's natural healing processes by increasing blood flow to the affected area. This not only promotes faster recovery from injuries but also helps to strengthen muscles and reduce the risk of future strains and sprains.

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Dry Needling - Intramuscular Stimulation (IMS) is a highly effective treatment for a variety of musculoskeletal conditions. It's particularly beneficial for treating chronic pain conditions that affect the musculoskeletal system, including neck, back, and shoulder pain, as well as arm and leg pain.

IMS can also be used to treat conditions such as tennis elbow, carpal tunnel syndrome, shin splints, and headaches. It's effective for treating muscular tightness and spasm which commonly accompanies conditions such as arthritis and nerve irritation.

Furthermore, IMS is beneficial in addressing specific sports injuries, including sprains and strains. It can help to relieve muscle tension and improve flexibility, aiding in a quicker recovery.

In addition to treating these specific conditions, IMS can also be used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan for fibromyalgia and myofascial pain syndrome. It's a versatile treatment option that can provide significant relief for a wide range of conditions.

As you prepare for your first Dry Needling - Intramuscular Stimulation (IMS) session, it's important to know what to expect. The session begins with a thorough review of your medical history and a physical examination. This allows the therapist to understand your condition and tailor the treatment to your specific needs.

Next, the therapist will identify trigger points - areas of muscle that are causing pain or discomfort. Using a thin, sterile needle, the therapist will then insert the needle into these trigger points. The sensation can vary from person to person, but it's often described as a muscle cramp or twitch.

The procedure is generally not painful, but you may experience some temporary soreness or bruising at the needle sites. Each session typically lasts about 30 minutes, and the number of sessions required will depend on your individual condition.

Throughout the process, our therapists will ensure you are comfortable and well-informed about each step of the treatment.

Why Choose Dry Needling - Intramuscular Stimulation (IMS)

Dry Needling - Intramuscular Stimulation (IMS) offers a highly effective, treatment for various musculoskeletal conditions. It provides immediate relief from chronic pain, improving your overall quality of life. By relieving muscle tension and spasms, IMS enhances flexibility and range of motion, enabling a more active lifestyle. It stimulates the body's natural healing processes, promoting faster recovery from injuries and reducing the risk of future muscle strains and sprains. Whether you're dealing with persistent pain or recovering from an injury, IMS could be the solution you've been looking for to regain your health and vitality.