DRY NEEDLING/IMS

Person receiving IMS/Dry Needling therapy with electrodes on neck.

Dry Needling is also known as intramuscular stimulation (IMS) and trigger point dry needling (TDN). It is a safe, effective, and efficient treatment used to:

  • Relax myofascial trigger points, and

  • Restore normal muscle tones, muscle length, coordination, function, and strength

    Dry needling involves the insertion and repetitive manipulation of a "dry", solid filament needle in a trigger point in order to produce an involuntary spinal cord reflex, also known as a local twitch response (LTR). This results in lasting muscle relaxation due to the release of shortened bands of muscle fibers for overactive (tight) muscles or the activation of under-active (weak) muscles. Deactivation of the trigger points can bring immediate relief of symptoms, so the therapist can immediately train the muscles to work with the newly gained pain-free range of motion (ROM).

Close-up of a person's abdomen with IMS/Dry Needling therapy with electrodes.

Dry Needling vs. Acupuncture

Dry needling is similar to acupuncture in the sense that a dry, solid filament needle is inserted and manipulated under the skin to release endorphins and serum cortisol for pain relief. The difference is that dry needling is based on western neuroanatomy and modern scientific study of the musculoskeletal and nervous systems. Acupuncture is based on traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). It creates balance in the body by influencing the flow of Qi (energy) in pathways called meridians to achieve pain relief and alleviate inflammation.

Close-up of a hand with IMS/ Dry needling inserted into the skin.

Conditions Treated by Dry Needling

Dry needling has successfully been used to treat a variety of conditions including:

  • Head and Neck Pain - including whiplash and headaches/migraines, degenerative joint disease, degenerative disk disease or osteoarthritis

  • Otological (Ear) and Ophthalmological (Eye) Pain - including tinnitus and eye strain

  • Dental (Teeth) and Orthodontic (Jaw and Occlusal) Pain - including cavities, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction, tooth impaction, and root problems

  • Shoulder Pain - including rotator cuff muscle tears, bursitis, adhesive capsulitis (frozen shoulder), tendonitis, and impingement syndrome

  • Elbow Pain - including lateral epicondylitis (tennis elbow) and medial epicondylitis (golfer's elbow)

  • Hand and Wrist Pain - including gamekeeper's thumb, DeQuervain's syndrome, carpal tunnel syndrome, degenerative joint disease, and osteoarthritis

Dry Needling session with practitioner inserting needle into patient's shoulder
  • Back and Hip Pain - including lumbar degenerative disc disease, arthritic changes, and herniated discs

  • Knee Pain - including degenerative joint disease or osteoarthritis

  • Shin / Ankle / Foot Pain - including shin splints, gout, metatarsalgia, and Morton's neuroma

  • Plantar Fasciitis (Heel Pain)

  • Acute and Chronic Tendonitis

  • Athletic and Sports-related Overuse Injuries

  • Post-surgical Pain

  • Post-traumatic Injuries, Motor Vehicle Accidents (MVA), and Work-related Injuries

  • Other Chronic Pain Conditions - including myofascial pain and myofascial pain syndrome (MPS)

Transform Your Health at Strathcona Physical Therapy: Comprehensive, Customized, and Caring Approach

Magnifying glass icon with a plus sign, representing zoom in or search function.

Assessment & Diagnosis
Our experts conduct a comprehensive evaluation of your medical history, lifestyle, and pain levels to provide an accurate diagnosis.

Icon of a clipboard with a checklist inside a circular frame.

Personalized Therapy Plans
Based on your unique needs, we design an optimal rehabilitation program using scientifically backed methods.

Medical kit icon with blue cross

Innovative Treatments
Our diverse range of interventions, such as hands-on techniques and exercises, are guided by an experienced team that focuses on patient engagement and empowerment.

Atomic symbol in a blue circular icon

Evidence-Based Excellence
We employ scientifically backed therapy methods, harmonizing evidence-based research with skilled therapy to achieve effective treatments and positive outcomes.

Icon of three stylized people inside a blue circle

Caring Therapists
Our skilled therapists combine technique and compassion to guide you towards a path of recovery and optimal health.

Icon of two hands holding a heart in a blue circular badge

Why Choose Us!
Choose Strathcona Physical Therapy for precise assessments, customized treatment plans, and compassionate care. Schedule an appointment today for a different rehabilitation experience.

Shield icon with a checkmark inside, symbolizing security or protection.

Insurance covered:
At Strathcona Physical Therapy, we work with most insurance providers for accessible care.