Dry Needling or Intramuscular Stimulation (IMS), in Chestermere
Intramuscular stimulation (IMS), also known as dry needling, is a therapeutic treatment that targets tight and sore muscles that often accompany other conditions such as overuse injuries, nerve irritation, muscle strains, tension headaches, whiplash, arthritis, and low back pain. It involves the insertion of fine acupuncture needles into tight bands of muscle that contain a knot or “trigger point.”
This technique is widely used to address chronic muscular pain when other treatments haven’t provided sufficient relief.
At Vantage Integrative Health + Wellness, we offer Intramuscular Stimulation in Chestermere, which treats pain by desensitizing nerves and muscles. The needle activates a reflex, causing the muscle to release. As a result, the pain is eased, and circulation is stimulated to help increase healing. Contact us today to arrange a dry needling session or IMS in Chestermere and to schedule your appointment.
What Is Dry Needling?
Dry needling is a therapeutic technique used by healthcare professionals to address:
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Myofascial trigger points.
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Muscle tightness or restricted mobility.
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Pain at the injured spot
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Postural tension or imbalance.
Key features:
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Fine, solid needles are inserted into affected muscles or tissue.
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The technique is based on Western anatomical and neurophysiological principles.
It is commonly used in conjunction with other therapies such as manual therapy, stretching, and exercise-based rehabilitation.
Conditions IMS Can Address
Intramuscular Stimulation (IMS), also known as dry needling, may be used to treat a variety of musculoskeletal and neuromuscular conditions, including:
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​ Recovery from muscle tears
​ Rotator cuff problems
​ Tennis elbow
​ Temperomandibular joint pain (TMJ)
​ Spinal stenosis
​ Whiplash
​ Tendinitis and tendinosis
​ Chronic headaches
​ Bursitis and arthritis
​ Carpal tunnel syndrome
​ Plantar fasciitis
Intramuscular stimulation may be the appropriate treatment option for your condition. Call us to book an appointment to learn more about IMS in Chestermere!
What Is the Difference Between Dry Needling and Acupuncture?
Although both methods use similar tools, dry needling and acupuncture differ in purpose, technique, and underlying theory:
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Dry needling focuses on musculoskeletal and neuromuscular dysfunction, based on Western medical models.
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Acupuncture originates from Traditional Chinese Medicine and aims to balance energy flow (Qi) through meridians.
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In dry needling, needles target specific trigger points or motor points; in acupuncture, needle placement is guided by energy pathways and traditional diagnostic techniques.
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The two modalities are not interchangeable, and training for each differs in scope and philosophy.
At Vantage Integrative Health + Wellness, dry needling is performed by regulated professionals trained in anatomy and musculoskeletal assessment. Take a look at our gallery to see our dry needling session in Chestermere.
Benefits of Dry Needling
Dry needling is a targeted technique that may help address muscle tension, pain, and movement limitations. When applied appropriately, it can support recovery and improve physical function.
Clinical benefits may include:
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Reduced muscle tension – Helps release tight or overactive muscles that may contribute to discomfort or restricted movement.
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Improved mobility – Restores normal range of motion by targeting underlying myofascial restrictions.
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Decreased referred pain – May alleviate pain that radiates from trigger points to other areas of the body.
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Support for recovery – Often used in conjunction with other therapies to aid tissue healing and restore muscle balance.
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Enhanced neuromuscular function – Stimulates sensory and motor pathways, encouraging proper muscle activation.
Our team at Vantage Integrative Health + Wellness delivers dry needling treatments in Chestermere that follow current clinical standards and best practices.
