Positives

• Intramuscular Stimulation (IMS), developed by Dr. Chan Gunn, uses thin acupuncture needles to elicit a local twitch response in trigger points within shortened muscles; numerous studies have demonstrated efficacy in reducing pain, particularly in myofascial pain syndrome, tension headaches, and chronic musculoskeletal pain North Vancouver Physiotherapy.
  
  

Negatives

• Most patients describe IMS as unpleasant during the procedure; the local twitch response feels like a brief cramp, and some patients experience a few days of post-treatment soreness before pain relief sets in My Toronto Physio.
  
  

Hurdles & Side Effects

• IMS is typically delivered by physiotherapists with specific GUNN-IMS or dry-needling certification; sessions cost $80-$150 each, with 6-12 visits typical for chronic pain; some insurance plans cover it under physical therapy benefits Synergy Health Centre.
  
  
• Patients on anticoagulation therapy (relevant for Long COVID patients on triple anticoagulation), with bleeding disorders, or with needle phobia should discuss IMS suitability with their physiotherapist before scheduling Seattle Spine & Sports Medicine.