Relieve Chronic Pain, Restore Movement
At Plus Physiotherapy in Brookswood, Langley, our Intramuscular Stimulation (IMS) services offer a targeted, effective solution for chronic pain and muscle dysfunction. Our skilled practitioners use IMS to relieve pain, reduce muscle tension, and promote healing, helping you regain mobility and live pain-free. This specialized therapy complements our physiotherapy and exercise rehabilitation services for a holistic approach to your recovery.
What is Intramuscular Stimulation (IMS)?
Intramuscular Stimulation (IMS), also known as dry needling, is a technique that uses fine, sterile needles to stimulate tight or dysfunctional muscles. By targeting trigger points and releasing muscle tension, IMS addresses the underlying causes of chronic pain, improves nerve function, and promotes natural healing. It's particularly effective for conditions caused by nerve irritation or muscle shortening.
Benefits of IMS
Our IMS services provide a range of benefits, including:
Our IMS Services
Comprehensive Assessment
Detailed evaluation of your pain, movement, and muscle function to determine if IMS is right for you.
Targeted IMS Treatment
Precise needle insertions into trigger points to release tension and promote healing.
Personalized Treatment Plans
Customized sessions tailored to your specific condition and goals.
Integrated Rehabilitation
Combine IMS with exercise therapy, manual therapy or other services for optimal recovery.
Education and Prevention
Guidance on stretches and exercises to maintain results and prevent recurrence.
Chronic Pain Management
Specialized care for conditions like sciatica, tendonitis or repetitive strain injuries.
What to Expect During Your IMS Session
Sessions typically last 20–40 minutes in our welcoming, patient-centered clinic in Brookswood. Wear loose, comfortable clothing to allow access to treatment areas, and bring any relevant medical records, such as imaging or insurance details for claims.
Why Choose IMS at Plus Physiotherapy?
Conditions We Treat with IMS
IMS can help with a variety of conditions, including:
- Chronic back or neck pain
- Sciatica and nerve-related pain
- Tendonitis (e.g., tennis elbow, Achilles tendonitis)
- Muscle tightness or spasms
- Joint pain (e.g., shoulder, hip, knee)
- Repetitive strain injuries
IMS vs Acupuncture vs Manual Therapy: What's the Difference?
IMS uses fine needles to release tight, irritated muscles. Acupuncture follows a traditional approach, and manual therapy works with the hands. Your physiotherapist will recommend what fits your assessment.
Swipe sideways to see the full table on a phone.
| IMS (dry needling) | Acupuncture | Manual therapy | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Approach | Western medical approach grounded in neurophysiology and musculoskeletal assessment | Based on Eastern medicine and meridian points | Hands-on physiotherapy techniques |
| Needles used | Yes, fine sterile needles | Yes, fine needles | No |
| What it targets | Trigger points and tight or shortened muscle bands that irritate nerves | Traditional acupuncture points | Stiff joints and tight soft tissue |
| Often used for | Chronic muscle pain, persistent tightness, nerve-related discomfort, tendon issues | Pain and general wellbeing, offered as a separate acupuncture service | Reduced movement from stiffness or tightness |
| Typical session | About 20 to 40 minutes | Varies by treatment | Varies by treatment |
| Works best with | Exercise therapy, manual therapy and stretching programs | Your wider treatment plan | IMS and active rehabilitation |
Book Your IMS Appointment Today
Ready to find relief from chronic pain and move freely again? Contact Plus Physiotherapy to schedule your IMS consultation. Call us at (236) 325-0660, email info@plusphysio.ca, or book online now.
Location: 4041 200 St, Langley, BC V3A 1K8
Appointments: Check online availability or call (236) 325-0660.
FAQs
1. What is Intramuscular Stimulation (IMS)?
Intramuscular Stimulation (IMS), also known as dry needling, is a physiotherapy technique where very fine, sterile needles are inserted into tight or shortened muscles to help reduce pain, release muscle tension, and improve movement. The needles do not inject medication; instead, they stimulate the affected muscle tissue and nerve pathways.
2. How does IMS work?
IMS targets specific trigger points or tight muscle bands. When the fine needle enters a tight muscle, it often causes a reflexive twitch or cramping sensation. This helps the muscle to relax and lengthen, which can reduce nerve irritation and allow for improved muscle function and circulation.
3. What conditions can IMS treat?
IMS is commonly used to help with:
- Chronic muscle pain and stiffness
- Back and neck pain
- Tendon issues and repetitive strain injuries
- Nerve-related pain or neuropathic pain symptoms
- Limited range of motion related to muscle tightness
- Sports injuries and myofascial pain patterns
Each case is assessed individually to determine whether IMS is appropriate.
4. Is IMS the same as acupuncture?
No. Although IMS uses similar needles, it differs from traditional acupuncture. Acupuncture is based on Eastern medicine and meridian points, while IMS is a Western medical approach grounded in neurophysiology and musculoskeletal assessment, focusing on diagnosing and treating muscle dysfunction.
5. How long does an IMS session take?
A typical IMS session lasts about 20 to 40 minutes, depending on the assessment findings and the number of areas being treated. Your physiotherapist will discuss what to expect before starting the treatment.
6. How many treatments are needed?
The number of sessions varies by individual and condition severity. Some people experience relief after a few sessions, while others may require a series of treatments combined with other physiotherapy techniques such as exercise therapy, manual therapy or stretching programs.
7. Who is a good candidate for IMS?
People with chronic muscle pain, persistent tightness, nerve-related discomfort or those who haven't responded well to other treatments may benefit from IMS. Your physiotherapist will evaluate your medical history and symptoms to determine if IMS is suitable.
Related care and useful reading
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