My patients often ask me: “What is the difference between Acupuncture and IMS (Intramuscular Stimulation/Dry Needling)?” In this blog post, I’ve summarized three key differences in these popular treatments:
1. History & How They Work
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a technique rooted in traditional Chinese medicine and has been practiced for thousands of years. This ancient method involves inserting very thin needles into specific acupuncture points across the body to relieve pain and address various ailments.
According to traditional beliefs, these acupuncture points correspond to pathways of energy, known as meridians or QI through which the body’s life force flows. When Qi is blocked or imbalanced, it can lead to illness or discomfort. By stimulating these points, acupuncture aims to restore the flow and promote balance and healing within the body.
IMS Therapy
Intramuscular stimulation (IMS) uses the same needles but is based on Western medicine’s knowledge of anatomy and physiology.
IMS treatment addresses chronic pain that comes from pressure being put on nerve roots due to chronically tight muscles.
Instead of stimulating specific acupuncture points, we base insertion points on a thorough physical examination which includes finding the root of your muscle tightness and pain. The needle is inserted into specific trigger points eliciting a twitch response from the muscle allowing the release of unwanted tension which will take the pressure off of your nerves.
It is important to note that the needles do not inject anything into the body and all needles are single-use and sterile.
2. What Are They Used to Treat?
While acupuncture and IMS can both be used to treat pain within the body. There are a few main differences to note when it comes to what these treatments focus on.
Acupuncture: A Holistic Approach
Acupuncture is used to treat a wide range of health issues. It does this by restoring balance to the body’s energy flow, treating chronic pain, and improving the immune system.
Acupuncture can be used to alleviate symptoms of:
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Tension Headaches/Migraines
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Anxiety/Depression
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Digestive Issues
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Muscle Tension
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Arthritis
Acupuncture can be used to treat a variety of other health issues and conditions. If you are wondering if acupuncture is right for you, it is best to contact a provider who practices and is trained in acupuncture.
Intramuscular Stimulation: Targeting Muscle Pain and Dysfunction
Unlike acupuncture, IMS is used to target and address chronic musculoskeletal pain. It’s particularly effective for conditions where muscles have become tight, shortened, or overactive, where manual therapy and exercise haven’t helped.
IMS is commonly used to treat:
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Frozen Shoulder
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Tennis Elbow
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Jaw Issues/Pain
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Sciatica
IMS can be used to treat a variety of other conditions. If you are wondering if IMS is right for you, contact us or email us at the clinic at info@alaia.ca for more information.
3. Sessions & Treatment Length
Acupuncture: What to Expect
During a session, acupuncture needles are inserted into specific points on the body to stimulate energy flow and promote healing.
The acupuncture experience usually consists of several needles inserted into your body and left there while you lay still for 20-30 minutes on average.
The process is typically relaxing, with patients often feeling a sense of calm and balance after treatment.
Acupuncture is used for so many different ailments that it is extremely hard to predict how long treatment will need to continue. It is best to consult with your Acupuncturist to determine a treatment plan.
Intramuscular Stimulation: What to Expect
During an IMS session, a trained Physiotherapist will insert fine needles into the affected muscles to provoke a twitch response. This response helps to release the tightness and improve muscle function, leading to reduced pain and increased mobility.
IMS is typically a shorter session than acupuncture but will often leave the patient with a bit more soreness after completion. One may feel like they have had a flu shot or a “Charlie Horse” at the insertion point 24-48 hours after treatment. However, once this has passed, the muscle will feel much more relaxed and in a better condition than before the treatment.
With IMS, patients often experience significant improvements within the first few sessions. However, patients may require further treatment depending on their condition. A reassessment will be conducted to see if IMS should be continued or if a shift in focus to change the treatment approach is necessary.
Of course, results may vary and your practitioner will work with you to ensure you have the most appropriate treatment for your condition.
IMS Treatment Vancouver: Alaia Physiotherapy
If you are looking for IMS services in Vancouver, our expert physiotherapy team at Alaia is here to help. Our highly trained physiotherapists are all certified through Gunn IMS or Acupuncture Canada. We have helped clients of all ages with a variety of chronic pain and other health conditions find relief.
Book an appointment with us today to get started toward living pain-free. If you have any further questions regarding IMS treatment, feel free to contact us or email us at the clinic at info@alaia.ca.
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