IMS treatment being conducted at Vancity Physio, a physiotherapy and sports medicine clinic located in Vancouver, British Columbia.

IMS in Vancouver

Clinical Physiotherapy - In Person Sessions

WHAT IS IMS?

Intramuscular stimulation (IMS) treatment is effective for acute and chronic pain of neuropathic origin. It is based on scientific neurophysiological principles. IMS involves the insertion of fine acupuncture type needles into the body where muscles have shortened or contracted.

IMS therapy is used to treat acute and chronic pain in neuropathic or musculoskeletal systems. IMS physio involves the insertion of very fine needles into the affected muscle. This process stimulates healing and is often referred to as “dry needling”.

IS IMS RIGHT FOR YOU?

IMS helps to relax and release muscles, as well as improve circulation to the area. IMS is best suited for patients experiencing chronic musculoskeletal pain such as lower back pain, tennis elbow, carpal tunnel, chronic whiplash, sciatica, fibromyalgia, and more. This is not an exhaustive list and the benefits of IMS can be used to treat a wide array of issues. IMS is not advised for patients suffering pain as a result of cancer, arthritis, diabetes, or Parkinson’s disease. Pregnant women and people who are recovering from surgery or infection are not advised to use IMS. Talk to your physiotherapist to see if this treatment is right for you.

Vancouver Physiotherapy Clinic IMS Therapy Dry Needling

HOW IT WORKS

IMS treatment uses acupuncture needles inserted into tight muscle bands, or close to the spine, to target compressed nerve roots. Each needle causes a small, therapeutic injury which causes the muscle to cramp onto the needle. This process stimulates spinal cord reactions which relaxes the muscle and returns nerves to regular function. Improved circulation to the area also encourages the healing process.

WHAT TO EXPECT

Once the needle is inserted into the affected muscle, you can expect to feel a twitch or deep ache from the muscle. While this sensation is not painful, it will feel mildly uncomfortable. The achy feeling may last for 24-46 hours. Patients usually see benefits from IMS within 6-10 treatments. Your physiotherapist will determine the appropriate length and timeline of treatment based on your condition.

HOW TO PREPARE

Prior to any recommended treatments your physiotherapist will screen you to ensure you are a safe candidate for dry needling. Before your IMS session you should have a light snack, refrain from any caffeine, alcohol, or nicotine for at least 2 hours, and dress in treatment-appropriate clothing (tank top, shorts, etc.)

POST-SESSION

IMS sessions are cumulative, meaning the more you do it, the better off you’ll be. Time will be allotted between treatments to ensure the tissue heals effectively. If aches or discomfort are felt after a session, try drinking water, soaking in a warm bath, or applying hot compresses to the area. Patients who have experience with acupuncture may find IMS slightly more painful as the needle is inserted into the affected muscle, rather than in specific acupuncture points. Bruising and local tenderness are common side effects of IMS. These effects shouldn’t last more than 24-36 hours.

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FEES

To book, please select Clinical Physiotherapy from our online booking platform. To maximize your session’s value, and take advantage of our diverse treatment options, fees are inclusive of all treatments used during your session. Your physiotherapist will work with you to help assess which treatments will be most beneficial during your visit.

VanCity Physio offers direct billing.

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