IMS & Dry Needling in Surrey, BC

At WellCare Physiotherapy & Rehab, we offer Intramuscular Stimulation (IMS), also known as dry needling, as part of individualized physiotherapy treatment plans. IMS is not appropriate for every condition or every patient. Before recommending treatment, your physiotherapist will complete a thorough assessment to determine whether IMS may be a suitable option based on your symptoms, medical history, goals, and examination findings.

Our clinic is conveniently located in Little India Plaza at Suite 203 – 8078 128 Street, Surrey, BC, and welcomes patients from Surrey, Newton, Fleetwood, Strawberry Hill, North Delta, Cloverdale, and surrounding communities.

What Is IMS (Intramuscular Stimulation)?

IMS is a physiotherapy technique that uses fine, sterile, single-use needles to target muscles that may be contributing to pain, stiffness, reduced mobility, or altered movement patterns. The goal is to address neuromuscular dysfunction as part of a broader rehabilitation program.

IMS is different from acupuncture. While both techniques use similar needles, IMS is performed within a physiotherapy assessment and treatment framework and is based on the findings of your physical examination.

Treatment is always tailored to the individual and is combined with other physiotherapy approaches when clinically appropriate.

When Might IMS Be Considered?

Following a comprehensive assessment, IMS may be considered for patients experiencing:

  • Persistent muscle tightness

  • Neck or back pain

  • Shoulder pain

  • Hip or gluteal pain

  • Muscle-related headaches or neck tension

  • Tennis elbow

  • Chronic muscle discomfort

  • Mobility restrictions

  • Ongoing symptoms that have not fully responded to exercise or manual therapy alone

Not every painful condition is appropriate for IMS. Your physiotherapist will determine whether it fits your treatment plan.

Your Physiotherapy Assessment Comes First

Before recommending IMS, your physiotherapist will complete a detailed assessment that may include:

  • Your health and medical history

  • Current symptoms and how they affect daily activities

  • Previous injuries or surgeries

  • Movement and mobility assessment

  • Strength and flexibility testing

  • Muscle and joint examination

  • Screening for factors that may make IMS unsuitable

Your physiotherapist will explain their findings, discuss treatment options, answer your questions, and only recommend IMS if it is appropriate for your situation.

What Does IMS Feel Like?

Patients often wonder what to expect during treatment.

When the needle reaches a sensitive muscle, you may feel:

  • A brief muscle twitch

  • A dull ache

  • Mild cramping

  • Temporary discomfort

These sensations are generally short-lived and vary from person to person. Your physiotherapist will communicate with you throughout treatment and adjust the technique based on your comfort.

What Happens After Treatment?

It is common to experience mild soreness or tenderness in the treated area for up to 24–48 hours after IMS. Some patients notice temporary fatigue or a feeling similar to post-exercise muscle soreness.

Your physiotherapist may recommend:

  • Gentle movement

  • Staying hydrated

  • Completing your prescribed exercises

  • Avoiding unusually strenuous activity for the remainder of the day if appropriate

Most people are able to return to normal daily activities following treatment.

IMS Is One Part of Your Rehabilitation

IMS is not intended to be a standalone treatment.

Depending on your assessment findings, your physiotherapy program may also include:

  • Manual therapy

  • Therapeutic exercise

  • Progressive strengthening

  • Mobility training

  • Movement retraining

  • Posture and ergonomic advice

  • Activity modification

  • Home exercise programs

  • Education to help manage symptoms between visits

Combining these approaches often provides a more comprehensive rehabilitation plan than relying on any single treatment technique.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is IMS the same as acupuncture?

No. Although similar needles are used, IMS and acupuncture are based on different clinical approaches. IMS is performed by a physiotherapist following a musculoskeletal assessment and is used within a physiotherapy treatment plan.

Does IMS hurt?

Some patients experience a brief twitch, aching sensation, or temporary soreness during treatment. Your physiotherapist will explain what to expect and adjust treatment according to your comfort.

How many IMS sessions will I need?

The number of sessions varies depending on your symptoms, assessment findings, rehabilitation goals, and response to treatment. Your physiotherapist will discuss recommendations after your assessment.

Is IMS safe?

When performed by a trained physiotherapist using sterile, single-use needles and appropriate screening procedures, IMS is generally considered safe. As with any treatment, your physiotherapist will discuss potential risks, benefits, and alternatives before obtaining your informed consent.

Is IMS right for everyone?

No. Certain medical conditions, medications, pregnancy, recent surgeries, or other factors may make IMS unsuitable. Your physiotherapist will review your medical history before recommending treatment.

Book an IMS Assessment in Surrey

If you are experiencing ongoing muscle tightness, movement restrictions, neck pain, back pain, shoulder pain, or other persistent musculoskeletal concerns, a physiotherapy assessment can help determine whether IMS may be appropriate for you.

WellCare Physiotherapy & Rehab
Suite 203 – 8078 128 Street
Surrey, BC V3W 4E9

Call 236-480-8395 or book online to schedule your physiotherapy assessment.

Related Services: Back & Neck Pain Physiotherapy, Sports Physiotherapy, Shockwave Therapy, Physiotherapy Assessment, and FAQ.