What is Intramuscular Stimulation (IMS)
Intramuscular Stimulation (IMS) is an approach for the diagnosis and treatment of myofascial pain syndromes of neuropathic origin. IMS, developed by Dr. Gunn in the 70’s is based on Western medical science and the radiculopathic model of pain.

Radiculopathic pain or neuropathic pain occurs when nerves in the peripheral nervous system malfunction and become super sensitive following minor irritation. These supersensitive nerves then misinterpret harmless signals from the body as exaggerated pain. This leads to chronic ongoing pain without any physical signs of permanent injury or inflammation. These supersensitive nerves also cause contracture of the muscles they supply and/or pass through.

How IMS works
IMS treatment utilizes small fine solid acupuncture needles to specifically target shortened muscles. The point of insertion of the acupuncture needle is usually at the epicenter of taut, tender muscle bands. They can also be inserted at the spine, where the nerve root may have become irritated or supersensitive. Penetration of the normal muscle by the needle is painless, however, a shortened ‘supersensitive’ muscle will ‘grasp’ the needle in what can be described as a ‘slightly painful, cramping sensation.’

With the insertion of the needle, 3 main things are accomplished:
1. A stretch receptor is stimulated in the muscle, which produces reflex relaxation and lengthening of the affected muscle
2. Inserted needle causes micro-trauma in the tissue, which in turn causes a release of Platelet Derived Growth Factor (PDGF.) PDGF stimulates synthesis of collagen and proteins which acts as healing agents that help repair damaged tissues and nerves.
3. The treatment creates an electric potential in the muscle which causes the nerve to start functioning normally.
Treatment Frequency
Patients are usually treated once a week, to allow time for the body to heal itself between treatments. The number of treatments required depends on several factors. These include the duration and extent of the symptoms, presence of scar tissue, and the person’s individual rate of healing.

Benefits of IMS
As the neuropathic muscle shortening is released by the IMS treatment, supersensitive nerves and the areas that they serve become desensitized and return to normal function. As normal muscle length is restored, pressure and irritation around the nerve is alleviated.
Therapists at Polyclinic Rehabilitation Institute have over 20 years of combined experience performing IMS treatments and have a high success rate in resolving many clinical issues in less than 8-treatments. Treatments can be scheduled by contacting our office.

Phone: (416) 477-1101
E-mail: reception@priclinic.com
Web: www.priclinic.com