Gunn Intramuscular
Stimulation (IMS)
One of the techniques that Dawn uses to treat injuries is Gunn Intramuscular Stimulation (IMS). IMS is used to treat neuropathic pain which is caused by irritation or pressure on the nerves causing muscles to become shortened and hypersensitive. Many persistent pain conditions are caused by this neuropathic pain and can occur in the absence of inflammation or tissue damage
Since neuropathic pain can exist without ongoing inflammation or tissue damage, pain killers and anti-inflammatories may only provide temporary relief or have no effect at all. In addition, x-rays, CT’s, MRI’s, Ultrasounds and other diagnostic tests may not show any visible signs of injury.
How does IMS work?
IMS is able to treat neuropathic pain by desensitizing affected nerves and muscles using fine, flexible needles (the same as acupuncture needles). The insertion of the needle into the affected muscle provides the therapeutic effect. The needle activates a reflex causing the muscle to release and in doing so, eases the pain.
Inserting the needle also creates a minor therapeutic injury to the area, stimulating the body to increase local circulation and activate it’s healing systems. The technique is particularly effective for deep muscles that can be difficult or impossible to reach with other forms of treatment. For examples, there are some muscles around the spine and pelvis that are too deep to be treated with manual therapy or deep tissue massage, and can only be addressed with a needle.
Conditions that can be treated using IMS
A broad range of musculoskeletal problems can be treated with IMS. We can treat a variety of conditions including:
Low Back Pain
Neck Pain and Whiplash
Headaches
Recurrent or Persistent Injuries (including Sports Injuries)
Repetitive Strain Injuries
Persistent Tendonitis or Bursitis
Sciatica/Piriformis Syndrome
Achilles Tendonitis
Arthritic Conditions
Myofascial Pain Syndrome
Patellofemoral Syndrome
Plantar Fascitis
Shin Splints
Shoulder Injuries (including Frozen Shoulder)
Spinal Disc Problems
Tennis/Golfers Elbow
TMJ Pain
How to we determine who is a good candidate for IMS treatments?
To determine the source of pain and the best approach to treatment, IMS practitioners perform a complete assessment including a medical history and physical tests. Once a full history and physical assessment is completed, your therapist will let you know if you are a good candidate for treatment or if you should consider other treatment alternatives.
If you are a good candidate for IMS treatment, sessions are usually scheduled once per week to allow time for the body to heal between sessions. The number of sessions required varies, depending on factors such as the length of time a problem has been present, age and general health.
Qualifications required to provide Gunn IMS treatment
Gunn IMS is practiced in Alberta by Certified Gunn IMS Practitioners (CGIMS) who are either Physical Therapists or Medical Doctors.
