IMS & Dry Needling in Vancouver
Get relief from pain and inflammation with Intramuscular Stimulation (IMS)
Experience the long-lasting relief of pain and inflammation with Intramuscular Stimulation (IMS)! Our trained physiotherapists use this advanced technique to insert very fine, sterile needles into tight muscles, creating reflexive muscle relaxation for relief from chronic pain and nerve issues.
1-on-1 Personalized Care
Integrative Approach
Beautiful & Convient Location
Our Approach to IMS & Dry Needling
Our Physiotherapists have advanced training in Intramuscular Stimulation (IMS). IMS involves the insertion of very fine, sterile needles into tight muscles to create reflexive muscle relaxation, stimulate blood flow for healing, and improve nerve function. In turn, this ease of muscle tension across joints helps to reduce pain, inflammation, and restriction. A special assessment is completed to determine if this treatment is appropriate for your condition. After treatment, it is common to be sore for up to 48 hours. IMS is usually recommended no more than once a week should treatment prove to be effective.
Common Conditions We Treat
- Sciatica
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Tennis elbow
- Spinal disc injuries/herniations
- Chronic whiplash
- Neuropathies/nerve injuries
- Chronic pain
- And more!
Highly Experienced Team
Our team of skilled therapists is committed to providing you with personalized treatments, focusing on reducing pain and improving mobility.
Personalized Treatment Plans
You are unique and so are your physiotherapy needs. We'll create a custom treatment plan that's personalized to your injury, needs, and goals.
Convenient Location & Flexible Booking
We offer a beautiful and convenient clinic location in Vancouver BC, as well as a variety of booking options and times to fit your schedule.
We Offer Direct Billing
Read What Our Patients Say
Meet Our IMS Physiotherapists
Learn more about the amazing team behind Reformotiv
Mon/Thurs 12:30-7:30pm, Tues 11:30am-4pm, Wed 7am-2pm
Carrie Viola
- Registered Physiotherapist
Tues 7am-1pm, Thurs 9:30am-3:30pm, Fri 12-6pm
Larissa Vishniakoff
- Registered Physiotherapist
Mon/Thurs 8am-2pm, Wed 1:30-7:30pm, Fri 12-6pm
Sean Lee
- Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy , Registered Physiotherapist
Thurs 9am-12pm
Kenneth Lo
- Registered Physiotherapist
Tues 2-7:30pm
Jackson Lam
- Registered Physiotherapist
Tues 12-7pm and Thurs 10am-5pm
Mecca Clipsham
- Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy , Registered Physiotherapist
Intramuscular Stimulation (IMS) is a specialized form of dry needling that involves inserting a fine needle into the muscle to release tension and promote healing. It is commonly used to treat chronic pain and muscle dysfunction.
IMS can be beneficial for a range of conditions, including chronic pain, muscle tension, headaches, neck pain, back pain, radiculopathy/nerve pain, and other related conditions.
IMS is generally safe when performed by a licensed and experienced physiotherapist. However, as with any medical treatment, there is a small risk of complications. Your physiotherapist will work with you to ensure that the treatment is safe and effective for your condition.
The duration of an IMS session varies depending on your condition and treatment plan. Typically, a session lasts between 25 to 55 minutes.
During an IMS session, your physiotherapist will perform a thorough evaluation of your condition, discuss past treatment and successes with treatment, assess movement patterns, assess nerve function, and develop a personalized treatment plan. The treatment involves inserting a fine needle into the muscle to release tension and promote healing. The needle may be inserted multiple times in different areas of the muscle.
IMS can be uncomfortable, but it should not be painful. Your physiotherapist will work with you to ensure that the treatment is comfortable and effective. Mild muscle soreness is normal for up to 48 hours after IMS treatment.
The time it takes to see results from IMS varies depending on the severity of the condition and the patient’s response to treatment. Some patients may see improvements as little as 1-2 sessions, while others may require more extended treatment.
Most extended health insurance plans cover IMS services under Physiotherapy when performed by a licensed and trained Physiotherapist. However, coverage varies depending on the insurance provider and the patient’s plan. We recommend checking with your insurance provider to determine your coverage.
No, a referral from a doctor is not required to receive IMS.
However, some insurance providers may require a referral for coverage. We recommend checking with your insurance provider to determine your coverage requirements.
Ready to book an appointment?
Our team is here to answer any questions you may have and provide the treatment you need.
