Dry Needling vs. IMS: What’s the Difference and Which One is Right for You?
If you’ve been dealing with chronic shoulder pain, muscle stiffness, or trigger points that just won’t go away, you may have heard of dry needling and IMS (Intramuscular Stimulation). These two advanced treatments are gaining popularity across Nolan Hill, Sage Hill, Glacier Ridge, NW Calgary, and the wider North Calgary region — and for good reason. Both techniques can provide fast, effective relief for issues like frozen shoulder, rotator cuff pain, and muscle dysfunction. But what’s the difference between them, and how do you know which one is right for your condition?
Let’s break it down.
Understanding the Basics
What is Dry Needling?
Dry needling is a technique where a fine, sterile needle is inserted directly into a muscle’s trigger point — a tight, irritable knot in the muscle often responsible for referred pain or muscle dysfunction. The goal is to release tension, improve blood flow, and allow the muscle to return to normal function.
Dry needling is particularly effective for:
- Frozen shoulder and rotator cuff issues
- Chronic shoulder pain
- Postural imbalances
- Athletes with repetitive strain injuries
What is IMS (Intramuscular Stimulation)?
IMS or Intramuscular Stimulation is a specialized form of dry needling developed to treat chronic pain conditions where there may be nerve irritation or sensitivity. While it also uses thin needles, IMS targets muscles that are shortened due to nerve dysfunction, rather than just tight knots.
IMS is often recommended for:
- Neuropathic pain
- Shoulder and neck tension caused by poor posture
- Chronic pain without visible injury
What Makes Them Different?
While dry needling and IMS may appear similar, they differ in philosophy, training, and application:
| Factor | Dry Needling | IMS (Intramuscular Stimulation) |
|---|---|---|
| Focus Area | Trigger points in muscles | Nerve-related muscle dysfunction |
| Theory | Myofascial release | Neuropathic pain (Gunn IMS model) |
| Application | Targets specific knots | Targets broader areas linked to nerve issues |
| Training | Available to a wider range of practitioners | Requires specialized certification |
At Nolan Hill Physiotherapy and Massage, we offer both techniques as part of a Comprehensive treatment plan that may also include Joint mobilization, Laser therapy, Medical acupuncture, and Personalized shoulder exercises.
Which One is Right for You?
It depends on your diagnosis, pain patterns, and overall health history. Here’s a quick guide:
Choose Dry Needling if you experience:
○ Localized muscle knots or trigger points
○ Muscle pain related to activity or overuse
○ Referred pain patterns without nerve signs
Choose IMS if you experience:
○ Chronic pain with no clear structural damage
○ Muscle tightness due to nerve sensitivity
○ Conditions like frozen shoulder with limited range of motion
Integrated Shoulder Pain Relief in NW Calgary
Whether you’re from Nolan Hill, Sage Hill, Glacier Ridge or anywhere in North Calgary, our clinic is here to help. At Nolan Hill Physiotherapy and Massage, we take a holistic approach to shoulder pain relief that goes beyond needling.
Our services include:
- Joint mobilization to improve shoulder mobility
- Laser therapy to reduce inflammation and promote healing
- Medical acupuncture to restore energy flow and reduce pain
- Tailored shoulder exercises for long-term strength and stability
Book Your Assessment Today
Don’t let shoulder pain control your life. If you’re unsure whether Dry Needling or IMS is the right fit, our expert physiotherapists in NW Calgary can guide you toward the most effective care plan.
Contact Nolan Hill Physiotherapy and Massage today and take the first step toward pain-free movement.
Serving Nolan Hill, Sage Hill, Glacier Ridge, Beacon Hill and the entire NW Calgary community.