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 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.

The Assessment:

The Treatment:

The Key Clinical Signs of Neuropathy:

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.