IMS & Dry Needling in Surrey, BC
Intramuscular Stimulation (IMS) and dry needling may be considered for selected muscle-related pain and movement limitations after a physiotherapy assessment. When appropriate, needling is used as one part of a broader rehabilitation plan.
What are IMS and dry needling?
Dry needling uses a thin, solid sterile needle. No medication or substance is injected. The needle is placed into selected tissues based on assessment findings and the intended treatment goal.
IMS is an approach to dry needling commonly associated with the assessment and treatment of certain neuromuscular pain presentations. Terminology and techniques can vary, so your physiotherapist will explain exactly what is being proposed.
Needling is optional
Your physiotherapist should explain the purpose, alternatives, expected response and material risks before asking for your consent. You can decline needling or withdraw consent at any time without losing access to other appropriate physiotherapy care.
Assessment comes first
Needling is not selected from a symptom label alone. Suitability depends on your health history, examination findings, goals and preferences.
Clarify the problem
We review symptoms, movement, function and relevant muscle or nerve-related findings.
Screen for precautions
Medical history, medications, pregnancy, prior reactions and factors affecting treatment safety are discussed.
Consider alternatives
Exercise, education, activity modification and hands-on treatment options are considered with you.
What to expect
The skin is cleaned and a single-use sterile needle is inserted into the selected area. Sensations vary and may include pressure, aching, a brief muscle response or temporary discomfort.
After treatment, some people experience short-term soreness, fatigue, bruising or a temporary change in symptoms. Your physiotherapist will provide relevant aftercare and activity guidance.
Risks and safety
Potential risks include soreness, bruising, bleeding, light-headedness or fainting. Less common but more serious risks can include infection, nerve or blood-vessel injury, or pneumothorax when needling near the chest.
Tell your physiotherapist about blood-thinning medication, bleeding problems, pregnancy, infection, allergies, fainting with needles, recent surgery, implanted devices or significant health changes.
Part of an active treatment plan
Individualized exercise
Mobility, strength or control exercises are selected for the activities and goals affected.
Education and self-management
Understanding symptom behaviour, pacing and load can help you participate actively in recovery.
Review the response
Needling is continued only when it remains appropriate within the overall physiotherapy plan.
IMS and dry needling FAQs
Is dry needling the same as an injection?
No. Dry needling uses a solid needle and does not inject medication or another substance.
Does dry needling hurt?
Sensations vary. Some people notice pressure, aching, a brief muscle response or temporary discomfort. Your physiotherapist should monitor your response and can stop treatment at your request.
Do I have to receive needling?
No. Needling requires informed consent and is optional. Other appropriate physiotherapy approaches can be discussed if you prefer not to receive it.
Does IMS replace exercise?
Usually not. When clinically appropriate, IMS or dry needling is generally used alongside active care such as exercise, education and activity guidance.
Related information and services
Learn more about back and neck pain physiotherapy, shoulder pain physiotherapy, sports injury physiotherapy, and physiotherapy services in Surrey.
Information is informed by Canadian physiotherapy guidance on dry needling, consent and risk management. It does not replace individual assessment. Last reviewed: July 2026.
Ask whether IMS may be appropriate
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