IMS: Intramuscular Stimulation
Jul 04, 2016
What is IMS? Intramuscular Stimulation: (based on the GUNN theory of IMS)
Intramuscular Stimulation (IMS) is a total system for the diagnosis and treatment of myofascial pain syndromes. Most successfully used in CHRONIC pain conditions that occur in the musculoskeletal system when there is no obvious signs of acute injury or inflammation.
What can be treated using IMS;
Many conditions that have lasted a long time and have not been amenable to other forms of therapy may be treated successfully with IMS. Some examples of this are, chronic overuse injuries, nerve irritation coming from various levels in the neck or back, chronic muscle strains, tension headaches, whiplash, arthritis, and low back pain.
How does it work:
After a thorough history and assessment, very fine needles (similar to acupuncture) are inserted into the bands of tightened muscles (ones that have contracted and become shortened from distress) . Often needles will be inserted near the spine where the nerve root may have become irritated and supersensitive causing muscles to overreact and stay “tight”. The experienced therapist finds the bands of shortened muscles and releases them one at a time, sometimes leaving needles in for short periods of time until the muscle releases and the pain dissipates.
What will it feel like:
IMS can be an uncomfortable form of treatment . It will often feel like a cramp, a grab, a twitch, or a strong ache deep in the muscle that will slowly dissipate as the muscle releases.
Penetration of a normal muscle, however, is painless.
How does IMS actually help:
The ultimate result is: giving the patient a feeling of muscle release and overall relaxation in the the musculoskeletal system. Thus it actually works in three ways; One, a stretch receptor in the muscle is stimulated, producing a reflex relaxation (lengthening). Two, the needle also causes a small injury that draws blood to the area, initiating the natural healing process. Three, the treatment creates an electrical potential in the muscle to make the nerve function normally again.
What can I expect to feel like after the needles:
Post treatment soreness is common in the muscles that were treated, much like a hard workout at the gym. This does not always occur, but is expected and is considered normal. It is also common to feel tired or fatigued, or even emotional after treatment. This is a normal response and can last an hour or two, or up to a day. Drinking lots of fluids, Use of heat (hot packs) and hot baths/ tubs may help aid with this muscle soreness. Many patients also feel a muscle release after the first treatment with noticeable improvement in their range of motion (ROM).
Is IMS for me?
IMS is not for everyone. It is essential that an experienced physical therapist trained in IMS theory and practice make the determination whether or not you are a good candidate for IMS. They will be able to tell if the pain, signs and symptoms you are experiencing would be treatable with IMS.
I have been practicing IMS of over 8 years and have had much success with IMS and chronic pain conditions.
So, come visit me at Dynamic Sports Physical Therapy in Servus Place, for a thorough assessment and determination of your needs; call 780-458-8505 to book an appointment.
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