IMS is a modern neuromuscular treatment used to treat acute injuries and persistent, recurring chronic conditions.
Intramuscular Stimulation, or simply IMS, treatments use acupuncture needles inserted into the region of a tight muscle or known nerve supply in order to improve both acute and chronic conditions.
Well-placed IMS needles induce a reflex response that causes a shortened muscle to relax and lengthen. This response beneficially affects both the local muscle as well as the neurological connections to that muscle.
No. IMS needling does not involve the injection of any substance into the tissue. IMS is known as a “dry needling” technique, used to reduce chronic muscular tension and excess neurological excitation of an area.
IMS is particularly well-suited to any condition where chronic muscle shortening or tightness is implicated. The changes to long-standing muscle tension and nerve excitability can be quite profound, and often benefit the local musculature as well as the painful joints affected by these muscles.
No. While they are similar, IMS involves a much more substantial neuropathic approach than Trigger Point therapy. With IMS, needles are often also inserted along nerve pathways, or at nerve roots, as well as at associated or antagonist muscles for a more comprehensive effect.
During your initial appointment, your physiotherapist will perform a detailed history and examination to determine if IMS is an appropriate treatment. You will discuss the benefits and any risks with your therapist before getting started and can withdraw your consent for treatment at any time.
Your first visit consists of a thorough, hands-on assessment. If IMS is determined to be appropriate for your condition, your physiotherapist may begin with a trial of two or four needles. The amount of needling will be progressed gradually and comfortably.
IMS is often used on a particular group of conditions referred to as persistent myofascial pain syndromes:
IMS can be extremely effective on:
View the articles below to learn more about IMS, including background information, techniques, effects, and the differences between IMS and acupuncture.
Authored by Pinpoint Physiotherapy’s Joe Box.
Authored by Sang-Chul Lee and Young-Jae Kim.
Have questions about Intramuscular Stimulation or any other treatments? Visit the FAQs page or get in touch for help.