IMS (Intramuscular Stimulation) Edmonton

A needling approach for persistent pain driven by shortened, irritable muscles — performed by physiotherapists trained in Gunn IMS.

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IMS Therapy in Edmonton for Chronic Muscle and Nerve-Related Pain

Gunn IMS- Intramuscular Stimulation Therapy is a needling technique developed by Dr. Chan Gunn for chronic pain that has a neuropathic component — pain arising from irritated or hypersensitive nerves that keep muscles in a shortened, tender state. Fine, solid needles are inserted into these tight bands to produce a reflex release. At Next Step Physio & Neurorehab Clinic in Edmonton, IMS is performed by physiotherapists trained in Gunn IMS and is used within a broader physiotherapy plan.

IMS is often chosen when pain has persisted for months, when stretching and strengthening alone have plateaued, or when muscles keep tightening despite treatment. Gunn IMS- Intramuscular Stimulation Therapy may be considered as part of a broader physiotherapy plan to address neuropathic muscle shortening and support improved movement and pain management.

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What is Gunn IMS?

Gunn IMS- Intramuscular Stimulation Therapy follows a model that proposes many chronic pain problems arise from supersensitive nerves — often near the spine — that cause muscles along the nerve’s path to shorten. These shortened muscles can compress joints and tendons, contributing to pain that may not be visible on imaging.

Gunn IMS- Intramuscular Stimulation Therapy targets these shortened muscles through needling, including the small muscles beside the spine that supply the affected nerve root. This can trigger a twitch response and help release muscle tension. Treatment is systematic: the physiotherapist examines signs of neuropathy, such as tight muscle bands, skin changes and sensitivity, and treats the muscles showing these signs rather than focusing only on the area where pain is felt.

IMS vs dry needling vs acupuncture

All three use similar thin needles, but the reasoning differs. Acupuncture is based on Traditional Chinese Medicine and meridian points. Dry needling targets trigger points in muscles. Gunn IMS- Intramuscular Stimulation Therapy is a specific assessment-and-treatment system for neuropathic muscle shortening that includes paraspinal needling and requires additional training.

At Next Step, your physiotherapist will recommend the approach that fits your presentation; sometimes a combination is used. See our separate pages on dry needling and acupuncture for more information about these treatment options.

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What happens during an IMS session?

IMS is always preceded by an assessment and is part of a physiotherapy plan.

Assessment:

Your physiotherapist examines movement, muscle tone and signs of nerve irritability, and confirms that IMS is appropriate for you.

Explanation and consent:

The technique, expected sensations and any risks are explained before treatment begins.

Needling:

Sterile single-use needles are inserted into the shortened muscles. A brief cramping or twitching sensation means the muscle is responding.

Paraspinal treatment:

Where indicated, small muscles beside the spine at the relevant level are treated as well.

Movement:

Gentle movement or stretching after needling helps the released tissue lengthen.

Plan:

Most people are treated weekly for several sessions and progress is reviewed at each visit.

Post-treatment soreness for a day or two is common and is usually followed by a noticeable improvement in tightness.

Conditions commonly treated with IMS

IMS is often used for:

Chronic low back pain:

Including pain with muscle tightness that persists after other treatment.

Neck pain and headaches:

Tension-type and cervicogenic headaches linked to tight neck and shoulder muscles.

Sciatica and referred leg pain:

Where shortened hip and back muscles irritate nerve pathways.

Shoulder and rotator cuff pain:

Long-standing shoulder tightness and impingement-type pain.

Tennis and golfer's elbow:

Persistent tendon pain with forearm muscle tightness.

Plantar fasciitis and calf tightness:

Foot and heel pain with tight calf muscles.

Whiplash and post-accident pain:

Muscle guarding that remains after a collision.

Recurrent muscle strains:

Muscles that keep tightening or re-injuring despite rehab.

IMS is combined with exercise and manual therapy so gains are maintained between sessions.

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Safety and who should not have IMS

IMS is performed with sterile, single-use needles by trained physiotherapists. Gunn IMS- Intramuscular Stimulation Therapy may not be suitable, or may require modification, if you have a bleeding disorder or take anticoagulants, have a compromised immune system, are pregnant (as certain areas must be avoided), have a needle phobia, or have an infection or skin condition over the treatment area.

Tell your physiotherapist about all medications you take and any changes in your health before treatment. Common after-effects are soreness and occasional small bruises; serious complications are rare.

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

FAQ

About IMS

Does IMS hurt?

You may feel a brief deep ache or cramp when a tight muscle twitches — this is the desired response and lasts seconds. Most people describe it as strange rather than painful.

How is IMS different from dry needling?

Dry needling targets trigger points wherever they are found. IMS follows the Gunn model of nerve-related muscle shortening and includes systematic examination and paraspinal needling.

How many IMS sessions will I need?

Many people notice change within 2–4 sessions. Chronic problems typically need 4–8 sessions spaced about a week apart.

Is IMS covered by insurance?

IMS is delivered by a physiotherapist within a physiotherapy visit, so it is billed as physiotherapy and covered by most extended health plans. Some plans list it separately; check your policy.

Do I need a referral?

No. Book directly. Your physiotherapist will assess whether IMS is appropriate for you.

After treatment

What should I expect afterwards?

Soreness for 24–48 hours, sometimes a small bruise. Gentle movement, heat and water help. Improvement in tightness usually follows.

Can I exercise after IMS?

Light activity is encouraged; avoid intense training for a day.

Who performs IMS at Next Step?

Physiotherapists trained in Gunn IMS. Ask when booking to be scheduled with an IMS-trained therapist.

Can IMS be combined with other treatment?

Yes. It is usually combined with exercise, manual therapy and, where useful, shockwave or dry needling.

Is IMS suitable for older adults?

Yes, with appropriate screening. Many older patients with long-standing back or neck pain respond well.

Related services at Next Step:

Available at our Millwoods clinic in Edmonton. Book an appointment.