What is the difference between acupuncture and IMS?
At first glance, you may be inclined to think that intramuscular stimulation (IMS) is similar to acupuncture. While acupuncture and IMS may use similar needles, the techniques employed are completely different. IMS requires the
physiotherapist to have a greater knowledge of human anatomy and biomechanics, as the assessment of movement and alignment is key in finding which areas to treat.
physiotherapist to have a greater knowledge of human anatomy and biomechanics, as the assessment of movement and alignment is key in finding which areas to treat.
How long will the benefits of IMS last?
IMS treatment has a cumulative effect. This means that over time, the severity of the injury will decrease, until the condition is healed and pain does not return! Much like pruning a plant leads to healthier growth in the long run, each IMS
treatment creates micro-traumas to the injury, drawing blood and natural healing factors to the area. Over time, this results in complete recovery of the injury and improved function.
treatment creates micro-traumas to the injury, drawing blood and natural healing factors to the area. Over time, this results in complete recovery of the injury and improved function.
How often will I need IMS treatment?
IMS is usually done once a week, until the injury is fully resolved. This is to allow the injury/tissue to heal from the needling between treatments.
What does it feel like?
The needles used for IMS treatment are extremely thin, and therefore there is no pain associated with the insertion of the needle through the skin itself. Patients often describe the feeling of IMS as an ache or muscle cramp, and a distinct sensation of the muscle "gripping" the needle. While this cramp can be quite painful and intense, it will only last briefly before easing. After this cramp, the muscle will relax, and the feeling is often described as a "release" as the muscle lengthens back to a healthy resting state. An IMS needle inserted into a "healthy" muscle will not provide any cramping or painful sensations.
What should I expect after treatment?
It is not unusual to have some soreness, aching, or fatigue after treatment, and may persist for a couple hours or into the next day. This is normal, due to the body's natural healing processes working at the site of the injury, and will resolve without intervention. Some people also report feeling dazed, extremely tired, or emotional after treatment. These symptoms will also dissipate shortly after treatment. However, depending on the intensity of your treatment, it is recommended that you do not participate in any rigorous physical activity or exercise for the rest of the day. Once the initial soreness of treatment dissipates, you can expect a decrease in pain, and an increase in range of motion and function!
What should I do following my treatment?
As mentioned earlier, it is advised that heavy physical exertion is avoided for the rest of the day following your treatment. Drinking plenty of water, taking a hot bath or shower, or applying hot/cold packs to the area can also help with any soreness or fatigue experienced.
What does IMS do?
The main purpose of IMS is to release tight muscles, which in turn can alleviate problems with alignment, nerve compression, and range of motion. When the thin IMS needle is inserted into an irritated/tense muscle, a twitch is stimulated and the muscle then relaxes. Over time, this has a cumulative effect and can resolve large movement issues or injuries. For a more comprehensive explanation of what IMS is and how it works, please click here.
What are the risks associated with IMS?
As with any technique or treatment, there are risks associated with IMS. However, these risks are very small, and a number of steps are taking to minimize their likelihood during your treatment. As with any needling, there is a chance for infection. The needles used are individually wrapped, sterilized, and disposed into a safe-handling box directly after each use. Furthermore, the skin is cleaned with alcohol prior to any insertion. Bruising may result if an inserted needle hits a small vein or artery. This small bruise should dissipate within a few days. IMS is never performed in areas that could cause lasting damage if punctured, such as over major organs.