Dry Needling Therapy
Intramuscular Stimulation (IMS) for Stubborn Muscle Knots
A precise anatomical approach utilizing ultra-thin filament needles to release tight trigger points in contracted muscles, restoring blood flow and full range of motion.
Therapeutic Rationale & Clinical Focus
Dry Needling—also known as Intramuscular Stimulation (IMS)—is an anatomically guided technique designed to address persistent myofascial trigger points. A trigger point is a hyper-irritable taut band within a muscle fiber that can restrict motion, compress local nerve pathways, and refer discomfort to distant areas of the body. By introducing a micro-thin filament needle directly into the contracted knot, the practitioner interrupts the chronic contraction cycle.
How This Therapy Works in the Body
When the ultra-fine filament needle reaches the tight trigger point, it frequently elicits a brief "local twitch response"—an involuntary spinal reflex contraction. This momentary twitch immediately relieves the biochemical tension in the muscle fiber, encourages local oxygenated blood flow, and prompts the muscle to reset to its natural resting length, improving joint mechanics and easing chronic tightness.
What a Session Involves
- 1 The session begins with thorough physical palpation to pinpoint the exact taut bands causing restricted movement.
- 2 The area is cleaned with antiseptic wipes, and you are positioned comfortably on the treatment table.
- 3 A sterile, single-use, hair-thin filament needle is gently guided into the targeted muscle knot.
- 4 You may feel a dull ache or a brief involuntary twitch as the muscle releases.
- 5 The needle is typically removed within moments or gently manipulated for targeted trigger point relief.
Key Outcomes & Advantages
Directly deactivates stubborn muscle knots that do not respond to traditional stretching
Quickly restores healthy range of motion in shoulders, hips, calves, and spine
Stimulates localized blood flow and tissue oxygenation to chronic trigger points
Helps break the cycle of recurring muscular spasms and compensatory posture strains
Frequently Asked Questions
While both modalities utilize very fine filament needles, their assessment and goals are distinct. Dry Needling is based strictly on Western anatomy and neuromuscular trigger point mechanics, targeting specific taut muscle bands. Acupuncture is an integrative system focusing on systemic flow, meridian balance, and whole-body harmony.
Begin Your Journey to Natural Relief
Contact Mission Health & Wellness today to schedule a consultation with Fred and Karise Lewin.