Dry Needling vs. IMS: Which Treatment is Right for You?

Pain that lingers or disrupts daily activities often feels difficult to understand, especially when the source isn’t immediately clear. For many, two common physiotherapy techniques, dry needling and IMS, offer relief, yet deciding which one is appropriate can feel overwhelming. Both approaches use a fine needle to target muscle-related pain, but their philosophies and applications differ.

We’ve put together this guide to help you explore dry needling and IMS needling in Edmonton, their unique benefits, and what you can expect from each treatment to help you make a confident decision about your care.

Understanding the Techniques: A Closer Look at IMS and Dry Needling

Intramuscular stimulation (IMS) is a technique designed to address neuropathic pain, which is caused by irritated or overly sensitive nerves. The needle is inserted into tight or shortened muscles that may be compressing these nerves, which helps release tension and restore normal function.

Dry needling, by contrast, focuses on myofascial trigger points, which are commonly known as “knots” in the muscle. By targeting these specific points, dry needling can help release muscle tightness, reduce pain, and improve mobility.

While both methods use a fine, sterile needle, the difference lies in how the treatment is applied and what type of pain it is meant to address. Whether you’re considering IMS or dry needling in Edmonton, it helps to know about the guiding philosophy.

The Underlying Philosophy: Neuropathic vs. Myofascial Pain

These distinct treatment approaches reflect their different theoretical foundations. Neuropathic pain often presents as burning, tingling, or hypersensitivity, and is frequently linked to conditions such as nerve root irritation, chronic back pain, and sciatica. IMS works by calming nerve irritation and reducing muscle shortening around affected areas, which can provide lasting relief.

Myofascial pain typically presents as local tenderness, muscle tightness, or referred pain in predictable patterns. Conditions like tension headaches, muscle strains, and many sports-related injuries often respond well to dry needling's targeted approach to trigger points.

In short:

• IMS needling is typically better suited for nerve-related pain.

• Dry needling is often effective for muscle trigger point pain.

What to Expect During Treatment

During an IMS session, the needle is inserted into the muscle where nerve irritation or dysfunction is suspected. The sensation may feel like a deep ache or muscle cramp, and some temporary soreness is common, usually subsiding within a few days.

Dry needling sessions are generally more localized. The needle is placed directly into a trigger point, which may cause a brief twitch response followed by relaxation of the muscle. Post-treatment soreness is also common with dry needling, usually resolving within a day or two.

In both instances, patients often report improved range of motion and reduced pain within a few sessions.

Take the First Step Toward Healing with IMS or Dry Needling in Edmonton

Understanding the source of your pain is the first step toward choosing between IMS and dry needling in Edmonton. A skilled physiotherapist can determine whether your discomfort comes from nerve irritation, muscle trigger points, or a combination thereof, helping you select the treatment that will provide the most effective relief.

At Reach Sports Physiotherapy & Hand Clinic in Edmonton, our team is trained in both techniques and can work with you to create a personalized treatment plan. Get in touch at 587-635-5258 or use our online contact form to book your appointment and begin your path toward safe, effective, and lasting relief.