- Sylvan Lake, AB T4S 2J3, Canada
- +1403-864-0663
- +1 403 864 0662
Dry Needling/IMS
Dry Needling/IMS
Dry needling is a technique performed by trained healthcare providers such as physiotherapists, chiropractors, or medical doctors, depending on jurisdiction and scope of practice. The method may be referred to as Dry Needling, Intramuscular Stimulation (IMS), Biomedical Dry Needling, or Functional Dry Needling (FDN), depending on the provider’s training and approach. This technique involves inserting thin needles into targeted muscles to address trigger points or areas of muscular tension. It may be considered as part of a treatment plan after a full assessment, with the intent to support musculoskeletal function in relation to movement-related pain or dysfunction.
how we help
Restore strength, mobility, and function with support tailored to your needs through education, empowerment, and evidence-informed physiotherapy care
"What is Dry Needling?
Dry Needling, also known as Intramuscular Stimulation (IMS), involves the use of a thin, sterile needle inserted into specific muscles to help reduce tension in areas with tight or sensitive bands, often referred to as trigger points.
This technique may be used as part of a broader physiotherapy plan to support musculoskeletal function and relieve discomfort. As with any intervention, there are potential risks and side effects, including discomfort, bruising, or dizziness. Although complications are uncommon, it’s important to discuss them with your physiotherapist and provide informed consent before treatment begins.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Dry Needling work?
Dry needling is a technique that may be used by trained physiotherapists as part of a broader approach to managing musculoskeletal pain or dysfunction. It involves inserting fine needles into specific muscles to target areas of tension or sensitivity, often referred to as trigger points.
This method may help support muscle relaxation, improve movement patterns, and reduce discomfort. The effectiveness of dry needling varies depending on the condition, and it is typically recommended following an assessment to determine whether it’s appropriate for your needs.
What conditions can Dry Needling help?
Many common orthopaedic conditions can be helped by Dry Needling, including:
- Muscular strains
- Sporting injuries
- Tension headaches
- Neck pain and stiffness
- Repetitive strain injuries (tennis elbow/patellar tendonitis/achilles tendonitis)
- Whiplash
- Lower back pain
What conditions can Dry Needling help?
Many common orthopaedic conditions can be helped by Dry Needling, including:
- Muscular strains
- Sporting injuries
- Tension headaches
- Neck pain and stiffness
- Repetitive strain injuries (tennis elbow/patellar tendonitis/achilles tendonitis)
- Whiplash
- Lower back pain
Is Dry Needling only for pain?
No! While Dry Needling is often able to offer instant pain relief, the main goal of needling is to allow proper movement and function. When pain is reduced after needling, joint range of motion is improved and proper corrective exercise can be prescribed to patients. Also, there are often times when your therapist will perform Dry Needling away from the site of pain, to release adjacent or compensating muscles, which can enable proper body function as a whole and relieve patient pain even faster.
Is Dry Needling safe?
Yes! As in all advanced therapy practices there are risks involved, but the most common side effect is local soreness around the needle insertion point that lasts 12-24 hours. Your treating clinician will review all relevant contraindications to Dry Needling prior to treatment.
Choose a trusted physiotherapy center in your community
Why choose us
Get Back to Your Life
Our rehabilitation services use the latest advances in technology and focus on healthy recovery for our patients.
24/7 Availability
Our center has an around the clock connectivity in case of any queries or consultancy.
Therapists on an emergency basis as well as a help center are always open for you.
Excellent Quality of Life
Re-active is a group of experts from top to bottom, so the quality of rehab a patient can expect from is always delivered. We believe quality rehab leads to quality living.
