Is IMS The Same As Trigger Point Dry Needling?

IMS and Trigger Point Dry Needling appear similar, however, there are some subtle differences to be wary of. Both IMS and Dry Needling use acupuncture needles, but how they are inserted and what they treat vary greatly.

What Is IMS?

IMS is a technique that uses acupuncture needles to stimulate tight muscles within the body. The process induces muscle spasms, which help to reduce muscle tightness and improve circulation.

IMS is an effective treatment for both acute and chronic muscle tightness. Most patients will experience immediate pain relief from IMS treatments.

What Is Trigger Point Dry Needling?

Trigger Point Dry Needling also uses acupuncture needles, but they target a different area of the body. Dry Needling works by targeting myofascial trigger points, which are also known as muscle knots, rather than the muscle itself.

Most trigger points are located in the neck, back, and shoulders and can become very taut over time.

Trigger Point Dry Needling is generally more effective in the long run because it focuses more on releasing muscle knots rather than targeting muscles themselves. However, unlike IMS, there isn't much immediate pain relief.

What Are the Differences Between IMS and Dry Needling?

Intramuscular Stimulation targets muscles and uses needles to induce muscle spasms, which improve circulation by increasing blood flow to the area of pain. It provides short-term relief from pain.

Dry Needling works by stimulating trigger points in the body with acupuncture needles. It typically takes time to see pain relief and can take up to months for the tension in trigger points to be released.

Which One Is Right for You?

It is important to understand your body and what areas are sore before seeking treatment. If you are experiencing immediate pain, IMS is probably the best treatment option for you. However, if there is excessive muscle tension, consider dry needling instead.

Remember, IMS and Trigger Point Dry Needling both use acupuncture needles, and both aim to relieve pain and improve circulation. Therefore, it is a good idea to try both treatments to see which is best for your needs. Contact Total Care Health today to learn more.

Total Care Health, based in Surrey, BC, offers science-based therapy in a compassionate environment. They have chiropractors, kinesiologists, physiotherapists, and massage therapists available to help you.

If you have any questions about this article, or you would like to book an appointment with one of our professionals, please call us at (604) 854-3090. We can help with orthotics!