IMS & Dry Needling
IMS & Dry Needling
Looking for IMS & Dry Needling in Whistler? At Peak Performance Physiotherapy, we offer both IMS and Dry Needling. IMS (Intramuscular Stimulation) and Dry Needling are effective, science-based treatments for relieving muscle pain, restoring movement, and addressing stubborn musculoskeletal conditions. Both techniques use fine needles to target muscles, tendons, and trigger points, providing relief where other treatments may have failed.
IMS
Intramuscular Stimulation (IMS) aims to restore proper nerve function and muscle health. It focuses on treating the underlying nerve dysfunction that causes muscle pain.
Developed in the 1970s by Dr. Chan Gunn, IMS uses fine acupuncture needles to target and release deep, shortened, and contracted muscles. This approach is grounded in Western medical science and focuses on the radiculopathic model of pain, which has gained support from experts in the field.
IMS is particularly effective for stubborn, long-standing pain conditions that have not responded to other treatments.
Dry Needling
Dry needling is a form of therapy in which fine needles are inserted into myofascial trigger points (painful knots in muscles), tendons, ligaments or nerves in order to stimulate a healing response in painful musculoskeletal conditions. Dry needling is a modern, science-based intervention for the treatment of pain and dysfunction in musculoskeletal problems, such as neck pain, shoulder impingement, tennis elbow, carpal tunnel syndrome, knee pain, shin splints, plantar fasciitis or low-back pain.
What Conditions Does It Treat?
IMS and Dry Needling are effective for a variety of musculoskeletal conditions, including:
- Chronic muscle tightness and trigger points
- Nerve-related pain and dysfunction
- Sports injuries
- Postural imbalances
- Persistent pain conditions that have not responded to other therapies
Our therapists assess your specific needs and determine the best approach to help restore function and reduce pain
What to Expect During Treatment
During an IMS or Dry Needling session:
- Fine needles are inserted into specific muscles or trigger points.
- You may feel a slight twitch or ache as the muscle releases, which is a normal and therapeutic response.
- Mild soreness may occur after treatment, typically resolving within 24–48 hours.
- It is common to experience fatigue after needling, especially if its your first time
- The session may include additional physiotherapy techniques to complement the needling treatment.
Treatment duration and intensity are tailored to your condition, with the goal of reducing pain, improving mobility, and enhancing recovery.
Is It Safe?
Yes, IMS and Dry Needling are safe when performed by trained and certified practitioners. Our therapists follow strict protocols to ensure treatment safety and effectiveness, including:
- The use of sterile, single-use needles
- Thorough assessments before treatment to determine suitability
- Monitoring your response throughout the session
- Extensive understanding of anatomy and physiology
- Advanced training and licensing for therapists practicing these techniques