IMS – Intramuscular Stimulation

About Intramuscular Stimulation

IMS (Intramuscular Stimulation) is a treatment for muscular tightness and spasm. When muscles become excessively tight, have trigger points, are injured, or are compensating for another problem, then they may benefit from IMS.

Small, thin needles are inserted into the muscles at the trigger points or shortened sections which are causing the pain or restriction. In response to the needles, the muscles then contract and eventually release, improving flexibility of the muscle and decreasing symptoms. IMS causes the muscles to relax and “reset”. The result is a reduction in pain and an increased ability to move the muscles.

IMS is performed by Physiotherapists who have taken special training and are certified in providing IMS. While treatment plans may involve three to five sessions, many patients have reported significant improvement after their first treatment. IMS is provided by our Physiotherapists.

What does IMS feel like? Many patients describe the sensation as a localized deep ache or sometimes a twitching sensation. Often the sensation lessens as the body responds. Once the tightened muscle has responded sufficiently, the Practitioner removes the needle. Sometimes numerous areas are treated within a session. Many patients have experienced “breakthrough” results from IMS with both acute and chronic conditions.

Conditions which can benefit from IMS include:

• Muscle tension/restrictions
• Frozen shoulder
• Tennis/Golfer’s elbow
• Rotator cuff injuries
• Trigger points
• Headaches
• Plantar fasciitis/foot pain
• Sciatica
• Shin splints
• Carpal Tunnel syndrome