Dry needling /IMS in Surrey, BC

Dry needling, also known as intramuscular stimulation (IMS), is a modern technique used to treat various musculoskeletal conditions such as back pain, neck pain, joint pain, and muscle spasm. It involves the insertion of thin needles into the muscle trigger points, which helps to relieve pain and improve function.

At its core, dry needling involves the use of fine needles that are inserted into the trigger points or knots in the muscles. These trigger points are areas of the muscle that are tender, tight, and often painful. They can result from a variety of causes, including injury, stress, or overuse. By inserting the needles into these trigger points, dry needling helps to release the tension and reduce pain in the muscle.

Dry needling is often used in combination with other physical therapy techniques, such as stretching, exercise, and manual therapy. The goal of dry needling is to provide relief from pain and to improve the function of the affected muscles. It can be used to treat a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions, including:

• Low back pain
• Neck pain
• Shoulder pain
• Hip pain
• Knee pain
• Tennis elbow
• Plantar fasciitis
• Headaches and migraines

Dry needling is a safe and effective treatment option for many musculoskeletal conditions. However, it is important to note that it is not suitable for everyone. Individuals who have bleeding disorders, are pregnant, or have a fear of needles may not be good candidates for dry needling. Your physical therapist will evaluate your condition and determine if dry needling is right for you.

The dry needling process involves several steps. First, your physical therapist will evaluate your condition and determine the best course of treatment. They will then clean the skin and insert the needles into the trigger points. You may feel a slight discomfort or a dull ache when the needles are inserted, but this should subside after a few seconds. The needles are left in place for a period of time, typically between 10 and 30 minutes. Your physical therapist may also use electrical stimulation to enhance the effects of the treatment.

After the dry needling session, it is normal to experience some soreness in the treated area. This soreness typically subsides within 24 to 48 hours. It is important to stay hydrated and to rest the treated area for a day or two following the procedure.

Dry needling is a safe and effective treatment option for many musculoskeletal conditions. It is often used in combination with other physical therapy techniques to provide relief from pain and to improve muscle function. If you are suffering from a musculoskeletal condition, talk to your physical therapist about whether dry needling may be right for you.