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Chronic pain and tension can be challenging to manage and can result from a specific type of musculoskeletal dysfunction called neuropathy. One of the main techniques employed by MOOV Physiotherapy & Wellness in our well-established pain program is Trigger Point Dry Needling Intramuscular Stimulation (IMS). Dry Needling IMS, is a system for assessment and treatment of myofascial pain syndrome that result from neuropathies.
Our Functional Dry Needling and Gunn IMS Certified Physiotherapists will take a detailed history and perform a comprehensive assessment of your mobility, strength, neurological status and function during your first visit. This thorough examination is a key component to recognize the physical signs of neuropathic pain, which diagnostic imaging fails to recognize, as there are often no obvious signs of injury, or inflammation in the painful tissues.
Dry Needling IMS treatment involves inserting a fine needle, comparable to those used in traditional acupuncture, into specific tight muscle bands that have shortened and become hypersensitive. It is called “Dry Needling” because no substances are actually injected into the muscles.
First, your physiotherapist will clean the area before inserting the needle into the tightened muscle. They will gradually alter the depth and orientation of the needle as they go.
Once the needle is inserted into the tense muscle, receptors in the tendons will become active and send signals to the muscle tissue telling it to relax. Additionally, the needle's small "injury" increases blood flow and boosts the natural healing process.
As a result of the needle being inserted, an "electrical potential" is also produced, which functions like a reset button to allow your nerves to operate normally again. When that is accomplished, the needle is taken out of the muscle.
Minimal discomfort is experienced as the needles first pierce the skin, followed by a sensation of muscle contraction/twitch as the needle penetrates the tight muscle band. Finally, you can expect a sensation of relief and deep relaxation in the treated area.
Neuropathic pain classically presents in signs of nerve dysfunction in both the painful area, as well as the corresponding spinal level. Often, the pain presents without a history of trauma, and will last longer than the expected duration for healthy tissue healing. Finally, The pain is resistant to other traditional forms of treatment.
Common symptoms include:
- Sensory Changes: excessive muscles tenderness to finger pressure (especially over motor points aka trigger points) and tenderness over involved spinal segments.
- Autonomic Changes: painful areas can be colder, may have excess perspiration, goosebumps, or local subcutaneous swelling.
- Trophic Changes: localized hair loss, brittle nails and skin changes in the corresponding levels.
- Muscular Changes: shortened muscles can lead to mechanical pain by pulling excessively on tendons or creating compression on discs and nerve roots which further aggravates the primary problem.
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IMS and acupuncture both use needles, which may make them appear identical. However, the two approaches are very different but both techniques can be beneficial for different conditions.
Acupuncture is a method that evolved from traditional Chinese medicine, focused on the energy meridians that run through your body and how they affect various organs, muscles, and other parts of your body. Acupuncturists usually place several acupuncture needles near certain points and keep them there for 10 to 20 minutes.
While acupuncture has been used for thousands of years, Dry Needling IMS was developed by Dr. Chan Gunn in the 70s during his practice in British Columbia, treating patients with chronic pain. Gunn IMS has a solid foundation in Western medical science's physiological and anatomical understanding.
It was developed specifically with the goal of targeting regions where there is persistent pain and muscular dysfunction. In contrast to acupuncture, in Dry Needling IMS, each needle is inserted for a brief moment before being removed and the process is repeated several times during the session, depending on your specific treatment plan.
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Dry Needling IMS therapy can help so many people, especially those with challenging and difficult-to-treat chronic pain conditions. IMS can efficiently assist with:
You can start to feel better even after just one initial visit! The typical frequency of this type of treatment is once per week and within 3 to 4 sessions of Dry Needling IMS therapy you should see even more meaningful results. The extent of your injury and your overall physical health will impact how quickly you recover.
Our trusted physiotherapists here at MOOV Physiotherapy & Wellness will lead you through a thorough assessment that will include taking a detailed medical history and a thorough physical examination, ultimately identifying the root cause of your condition. This will help us determine the source of your pain and the best treatment plan. Your therapist will inform you if you are a good candidate for therapy, or if you should look into other treatment options. MOOV Physiotherapy & Wellness offers a wide range of treatment techniques to help improve your quality of life.
These include but are not limited to:
If you believe you have a condition that could benefit from IMS or if you have been suffering from chronic tension and pain, our team is here to help. Make an appointment with MOOV’s experienced physiotherapists to get started on the path to efficient pain relief. They will examine you, advise you on the best course of action for managing your condition, and will be delighted to address any additional queries you may have.
Contact us if you have any further questions.
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Telerehabilitation is a form of physical therapy that uses technology to provide remote care. It is an effective way for patients to receive the same quality of care they would get in person, without having to leave their homes.
Telerehabilitation programs use video conferencing, telephone calls, and other forms of communication to connect patients with their physical therapists. During these sessions, the physical therapist will assess the patient’s condition and provide personalized treatment plans.
Telerehabilitation can take many forms, depending on the needs of the patient. Virtual supervision of rehabilitation interventions can include:
1. Video Conferencing
A video appointment is one of the most popular forms of telerehabilitation, as it allows for real-time interaction between the patient and their physical therapist. During these sessions, patients can receive instruction on exercises, stretches, and other treatments.
2. Telephone Calls
This type of telerehabilitation is often used for follow-up appointments or to check in with the patient about their progress.
3. Text Messaging
Text messaging can provide reminders about upcoming appointments or answer any questions the patient may have.
4. Online Education
Many physical therapists offer online education programs that can be accessed from the comfort of the patient’s home. These programs can provide information about exercises, stretches, and other treatments to help with recovery.
Searching for "dry needling near me" or "IMS therapy near me"? Look no further! At MOOV Physiotherapy & Wellness, we specialize in providing effective relief for chronic pain and tension through our Dry Needling in Downtown Ottawa. Our certified physiotherapists are dedicated to offering personalized care that's not just close by, but tailored to your unique needs.
Whether you're dealing with sports injuries, repetitive strain, or chronic pain conditions, our local and easily accessible services ensure that top-notch care is always nearby. Don't let pain hold you back any longer. Choose MOOV Physiotherapy & Wellness – your closest solution for expert Dry Needling and IMS Therapy, to help you move towards a pain-free life.