IMS Dry Needling Therapy

IMS (Intramuscular Stimulation) or dry needling targets tight muscles and trigger points to relieve pain, restore mobility, and improve overall function. By releasing muscle tension and promoting natural healing, it supports faster recovery from injury or chronic discomfort.

Available at Wyandotte & Banwell

What is IMS Dry Needling

IMS (Intramuscular Stimulation) Dry Needling is a specialized therapeutic technique that targets muscle pain and dysfunction. Utilizing fine, sterile acupuncture needles, this treatment is designed to relieve pain, improve mobility, and promote natural healing. It is performed by trained physiotherapists who have undergone specific training in this advanced method.

How Does IMS Dry Needling Work

During an IMS dry needling session, the physiotherapist thoroughly examines and searches for taut muscle bands or trigger points. After locating these areas, a clean acupuncture needle is inserted into the tense muscle, causing a muscle contraction known as a “twitch.” This process helps release the muscle, reducing the pulling effects tight muscles have on joints, discs, nerves, and tendons. Essentially, it “jump-starts” the nerve and muscle function, leading to reflex relaxation. Patients often experience a sensation of “release” and immediate pain relief, along with increased movement. IMS dry needling therapy offers long-lasting results with steady improvement over multiple treatments.

How is Dry Needling Different from Acupuncture?

Dry Needling and Acupuncture are distinct practices, though they both use fine needles. Dry Needling is based on Western Medicine principles and aims to restore normal muscle function by targeting trigger points and muscle bands to relieve pain and improve mobility. It is used within medically proven and measurable parameters, focusing on musculoskeletal function. Our therapists have undergone advanced training, successfully passed exams, and possess a thorough understanding of patients’ conditions through in-depth assessments and ongoing treatment. In contrast, Traditional Acupuncture follows the principles of Eastern Medicine. Acupuncture aims to balance the body’s energy, or “Chi,” to treat various syndromes. Practitioners of acupuncture use techniques to normalize energy imbalances within the body, providing holistic treatment.

Is IMS Dry Needling Painful?

While it might sound very scary to some, dry needling is not as painful as you might think it would be. IMS Dry Needling can cause some discomfort, but the sensation is typically brief and varies from person to person. Patients may feel a slight prick when the needle is inserted, followed by a muscle twitch or cramp as the muscle reacts to the needle. This twitch response is a sign that the treatment is targeting the right area. Most patients describe the discomfort as manageable and often report feeling relief and relaxation in the treated muscle shortly after the session. Our therapists strive to make the experience as comfortable as possible and will work with you to ensure your comfort throughout the treatment.

IMS Dry Needling Treatable conditions

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Direct Insurance Billing

We offer direct billing for many extended health insurance providers to make accessing physiotherapy care simple and convenient. Our clinic can submit claims directly to many major insurers, helping reduce out-of-pocket expenses for our patients.