What is Intramuscular Stimulation (IMS) & Dry Needling

Intramusular Stimulation or IMS is a treatment technique where a small needle is inserted into the skin and/or muscle in order to reduce pain and release tension in the muscle. It is aimed at releasing/relaxing myofascial trigger points.

A trigger point is a hyperirritable spot located within a taut band of skeletal muscle. Trigger points can be sensitive and tender to the touch. Sometimes touching a trigger point or contracting the muscle may cause localized pain or cause pain to be referred to other parts of the body.

Do you experience muscle tension? Have you tried stretching, rolling, and massaging but just can't seem to get relief? IMS can be a very effective way of getting those stubborn muscles to relax. Physiotherapists use IMS to release or inactivate trigger points in the muscle. This can help to relieve pain, improve range of motion, reduce muscle tension, and help speed up your return to active rehabilitation.

In cases where a physiotherapist suggests IMS as a treatment technique, it is typically one technique that's part of a larger treatment plan.

Meet Our Practitioners
Intramuscular Stimulation (IMS) / Dry Needling

Frequently Asked Questions

1What should I expect during my initial appointment?
Each session is unique because it is all about you and your specific needs and goals. During your initial appointment, your physiotherapist will perform a thorough assessment including history taking and a physical assessment. Findings from the assessment will be discussed with you and if indicated, IMS may be suggested as part of your treatment plan. The treatment procedure will be described in detail and consent will be obtained before proceeding with treatment. IMS is rarely performed as a stand alone treatment and is usually combined with other treatment techniques as well as exercise prescription.
2How long are the visits?
An initial visit is about 45 minutes to one hour in length. Subsequent visits are about 30 minutes.
3What conditions can IMS treat?
Some conditions that may benefit from IMS treatment include (but are not limited to): ● Neck pain ● Shoulder pain. ● Upper or lower back pain. ● Headaches and Migraines ● Whiplash. ● Knee pain. ● Hip pain. ● Achilles Tendonitis. ● Elbow pain. ● Jaw Pain. ● Stiffness in muscles and joints. ● Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. ● Chronic postural pain. ● Iliotibial Band Syndrome. ● Repetitive Strain Injuries. ● Limited range of motion/mobility. ● Sciatica. ● Plantar Fasciitis. ● Piriformis Syndrome.
4What kind of results can I expect from IMS?
● Reduction of pain symptoms. As your muscles relax and tightness is reduced, the compressive forces on the joints, ligaments and nerves are also reduced ● Improvement in range of motion and mobility. As trigger points are relaxed through treatment you should begin to notice a decrease in muscle tension and increased mobility at your joints.
5Are there any side effects of IMS?
After receiving an IMS treatment, it is common to feel soreness or aching in the area that was treated for up to 24-48 hours after treatment. To help reduce or relieve soreness post treatment we recommend drinking lots of water and applying heat to the affected areas to flush the body and aid in healing. It is also recommended to avoid strenuous exercise during this time. Other common side effects of IMS include bruising and local tenderness in the treated area.
6Does IMS hurt?
Each person's perception of pain is subjective and unique. Typically when performing IMS on a tight muscle one will experience some degree of discomfort or mild pain however some individuals do not. Commonly the sensation is described as a pressure or deep ache in the area where the needle is inserted along with twitching of the muscle. Twitching occurs when the muscle contracts and relaxes quickly. Following treatment it is common for the area that has been needled to feel fatigued, heavy and a bit achy. This sensation usually does not last more than 24-48 hours.

Get IMS / Dry Needling to help with your pains today!

Whether you are recovering from a recent injury, or looking to address an ongoing problem, we are here to help! Join us at Baseline as we get you moving through exercise and relieving your stress and pains. No matter the cause of your pain, we got you covered!

Request a free consultation
Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapy Burnaby 1