What is IMS?

Intramuscular Stimulation (IMS), also known as Dry Needling, is a technique used by physiotherapists to treat myofascial pain arising from tight muscles or muscle shortening. IMS is mainly used to treat myofascial trigger points, but can also be used to target connective tissue, neural ailments and muscular ailments. IMS uses the same needles found in acupuncture, however, IMS is different in its application as needles are inserted using physical trigger points, as opposed to other methods like meridian lines in traditional Chinese acupuncture.

Reverse Muscle Shortening and Spasms

When an injury irritates your nervous system, your muscles often lock into a protective, permanent contraction. This hidden muscle shortening can pull painfully on your surrounding joints and limit your daily range of motion.

  • Muscle Spasms: We insert ultra-thin needles directly into the tight bands to trigger a brief, therapeutic twitch response.

  • Deep Release: This mechanical twitch instantly forces the hyper-sensitive muscle fibers to lengthen and relax completely.

  • Tenderness Relief: Releasing these locked fibers eliminates agonizing muscle tenderness and local sensitivity.

Eliminate Localized Swelling and Inflammation

Chronically knotted tissues compress your tiny blood vessels, which quickly blocks natural fluid drainage. Therefore, hidden muscle tension frequently creates painful localized swelling and cellular inflammation around your injuries.

Luckily, dry needling immediately reopens these compressed pathways to stimulate healthy, nutrient-rich blood circulation. Because your body can finally flush out accumulated metabolic waste, your natural healing timelines accelerate.

What to expect from an IMS treatment?

During an Intramuscular Stimulation (IMS) treatment at Mountainview Health & Wellness, you can expect specialized care from our accredited physiotherapists and physicians who are trained to identify neuropathic pain associated with myofascial disorders. As symptoms of such conditions are typically not visible on standard imaging tests like x-rays or MRI scans, a thorough physical examination is conducted to accurately diagnose and target the root cause of your discomfort. With a focus on precision and effectiveness, our IMS treatments aim to alleviate pain and restore optimal function, providing you with the relief and support needed to enhance your overall well-being.

Intramuscular Stimulation (IMS) treatment Benefits can include:

  • Alleviates chronic muscle pain and tension.
  • Targets trigger points and myofascial restrictions for effective relief.
  • Improves flexibility and range of motion.
  • Enhances muscle function and strength.
  • Reduces nerve irritation and neuropathic pain.
  • Accelerates recovery from sports injuries or overuse syndromes.
  • Restores balance and symmetry in musculoskeletal alignment.
  • Promotes overall relaxation and stress reduction.
  • Addresses underlying causes of chronic pain for long-term relief.
  • Facilitates faster rehabilitation and return to activities of daily living.

INTRAMUSCULAR STIMULATION (IMS)

Intramuscular Stimulation (IMS) treatment offers targeted relief, helping you overcome muscle pain and discomfort to achieve greater comfort and mobility.

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