Dry Needling and Intramuscular Stimulation (IMS) for Targeted Pain Relief
At Reform Health + Wellness, dry needling and intramuscular stimulation (IMS) are advanced, minimally invasive techniques used to release tight muscles, reduce pain, and improve movement. These treatments involve the precise insertion of thin, sterile needles into trigger points or dysfunctional muscles to stimulate healing and restore normal muscle function.
Dry needling and IMS are especially effective for chronic pain, sports injuries, and conditions that have not responded well to other therapies. Many patients experience significant relief and improved mobility after just a few sessions.
Why patients choose dry needling and IMS at Reform:
- Precise treatment targeting the source of muscle pain and dysfunction
- Effective for chronic and stubborn conditions
- Minimal downtime with noticeable improvements often within a few sessions
- Complements our full range of services for truly integrated care
- Performed by trained practitioners in a modern, professional setting (opening August 2026)
Conditions We Commonly Treat
Dry needling and IMS are highly effective for a wide range of musculoskeletal and myofascial conditions, including:
- Chronic neck and back pain
- Shoulder pain and rotator cuff issues
- Tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow
- Plantar fasciitis and heel pain
- Hip and gluteal pain
- Tension headaches and migraines
- Sports injuries and overuse conditions
- Myofascial trigger points and muscle tightness
- Sciatica and nerve-related pain
- Postural strain from desk work or repetitive activities
What to Expect
Your First Visit: Your initial appointment typically lasts 30–45 minutes and includes a thorough assessment of your symptoms, movement, and areas of tension. Your practitioner will explain the technique and obtain your consent before beginning.
During treatment, very fine sterile needles are inserted into specific trigger points or tight muscles. You may feel a brief twitch response or cramping sensation as the muscle releases — this is a normal and desired effect. Most patients tolerate the procedure well, and discomfort is usually minimal and short-lived.
What to wear: Comfortable clothing that allows easy access to the treatment areas.
Follow-Up Visits: Sessions are generally 15–30 minutes. Your practitioner will monitor progress and integrate dry needling or IMS with other therapies (such as exercise, manual therapy, or adjustments) when beneficial.
Frequently Asked Questions
Dry Needling and IMS at Reform Health + Wellness
Dry needling involves inserting thin, sterile needles into tight or painful muscles (trigger points) to release tension and improve blood flow. IMS (Intramuscular Stimulation) is a specific approach that targets muscles along nerve pathways to address neuropathic pain and muscle dysfunction. Both techniques help restore normal muscle function and reduce pain.
Most patients experience only mild discomfort during needle insertion. You may feel a quick twitch or cramping sensation as the muscle releases, which is usually brief. Any soreness afterward is typically similar to post-workout muscle ache and resolves within 24–48 hours.
Common side effects are mild and temporary, including soreness, minor bruising, or slight bleeding at the needle sites. These usually resolve within a day or two. Serious complications are very rare when performed by trained professionals.
Absolutely. These techniques work very well alongside chiropractic adjustments, physiotherapy exercises, manual therapy, and massage. Our collaborative team often combines them for comprehensive care and better results.
Coverage varies by plan and is often included under physiotherapy or chiropractic benefits when performed by an appropriately trained and registered practitioner. We recommend checking with your insurance provider. We offer direct billing where available and accept private pay.
Ready to Release Tight Muscles and Reduce Pain?
If chronic muscle tension, trigger points, or stubborn pain have been limiting you, dry needling and IMS may offer the targeted relief you need.
At Reform Health + Wellness, these advanced techniques are integrated with chiropractic, physiotherapy, and massage therapy for truly comprehensive care. Our clinic is opening in August 2026 at East Hill Shopping Centre in Red Deer.
Join our waitlist today to be among the first to access this effective treatment option.
