Intramuscular Stimulation (IMS), also known as dry needling is a technique where solid needles are inserted into taut bands of muscle to deactivate and desensitize myofascial trigger points that cause pain and impair functions. These taut bands normally develop due to injury, overuse strains, musculoskeletal dysfunction and other unusual stresses. When muscles develop these taut bands, they often become shortened and can create pressure or strain to the structures around them, which can be perceived by the body as pain. These taut bands also impair a person’s capacity to lengthen and or contract a muscle. As a result of IMS, the muscle is able to contract and release which helps to resolve pain and stiffness, improve muscle function and flexibility and ultimately promote healing.

A patient may experience different sensations when being needled. These sensations can include muscle soreness or aching. It is a good sign when the muscle “twitches” when being needled. The needles may need to be placed deeply or superficially, for a short or long period of time, dependent on the type of pain being treated and the duration of the pain.