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Unlocking Relief: How Intramuscular Stimulation (IMS) / Dry Needling Can Transform Your Muscle Tension

Updated: 5 days ago

Close-up of dry needling technique being performed during an in-home physiotherapy session, illustrating how IMS (Intramuscular Stimulation) targets muscle tension — branded for ĀLow Mobile Physio in Vancouver.

Muscle tension can feel like a daily burden, especially when it’s chronic and resistant to conventional stretching or massage. If you’re dealing with stubborn knots, deep muscular aches, or nerve-related tightness, Intramuscular Stimulation (IMS) — also known as dry needling — may be the solution you’ve been searching for.


At ĀLow Mobile Physio, we specialize in delivering IMS therapy to your home across Vancouver, helping you restore mobility and live pain-free.


What Is Intramuscular Stimulation (IMS)?

IMS is a specialized treatment rooted in Western medicine, designed to treat chronic musculoskeletal pain caused by nerve dysfunction. It involves inserting very thin, sterile acupuncture-like needles into tight muscle bands (trigger points) to stimulate a healing response and release muscular tension.


Unlike acupuncture, which is based on traditional Chinese medicine, IMS is grounded in a modern neurophysiological understanding of muscle and nerve interactions. The goal is to reduce muscle shortening caused by overactive or irritated nerves.

Hands performing dry needling during an intramuscular stimulation (IMS) session for muscle pain relief in Vancouver.

How IMS Works 

When a needle is inserted into a shortened or tight muscle, the muscle often responds with a localized twitch. This twitch response helps to:


  • Release the muscle contraction

  • Increase blood flow to the area

  • Reduce nerve hypersensitivity

  • Normalize motor point firing patterns


The end result is less pain, improved flexibility, and restored function — often after just a few sessions.


Who Can Benefit from Dry Needling / IMS? 

IMS is particularly helpful for individuals experiencing:


  • Chronic back pain that doesn’t respond to massage or stretching

  • Neck and shoulder tension due to prolonged desk work or posture imbalance

  • Nerve root irritation like sciatica

  • Repetitive strain injuries (RSI)

  • Post-surgical muscle guarding

  • Whiplash-associated disorders


It’s commonly used for conditions such as:

  • Myofascial pain syndrome

  • Chronic low back pain

  • Tension headaches

  • Tennis elbow

  • Plantar fasciitis


The ĀLow Mobile Physio Approach 

At ĀLow Mobile Physio, we conduct a thorough clinical assessment before using IMS. Your treatment may combine dry needling with:


  • Manual therapy

  • Targeted strengthening exercises

  • Postural education

  • Neuromuscular re-training

Hands performing dry needling during an intramuscular stimulation (IMS) session for muscle pain relief in Vancouver.

Our approach ensures IMS is not a standalone treatment but part of an integrated recovery plan.


Benefits of In-Home IMS Therapy

  • Relaxed environment: no clinic stress or post-treatment commuting

  • Real-time posture and ergonomic advice tailored to your space

  • Immediate follow-up with mobility and strength work

  • Greater comfort and convenience, especially for those with limited mobility


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Book a Session:

Curious if IMS or dry needling is right for your condition? Let’s talk. ĀLow Mobile Physio is ready to bring expert care to your home, guiding you through a pain-free path to recovery.


Location: ĀLow Mobile Physio,

#707, 1160 Burrard St,

Vancouver, BC V6Z 2E8


Phone: (604) 861-3454

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