Back & Body Health

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Physiotherapy / IMS Needling

Physiotherapists utilize diagnostic and assessment procedures in order to implement preventive and therapeutic courses of intervention. They apply a collaborative and reasoned approach to help clients achieve their health goals, in particular focusing on musculoskeletal and neurological systems. Physiotherapy can assist anyone looking to improve their overall health from elite athletes to rehab after an injury, everyone can benefit from physiotherapy.


Back & Body Health Physiotherapists

Shauna McReavey, PTShauna McReavey

PT

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Tanya Luke, physiotherapistTanya Luke

BSc PT; CMAC, GUNN IMS

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Physiotherapists use a variety of techniques and interventions with their treatment including:

  • Personalized therapeutic exercises to improve strength, range of motion and function
  • Soft tissue and manual therapy techniques including: massage, mobilization and manipulation
  • Physical, electrotherapeutic and mechanical agents
  • Prescription, fabrication and application of assistive, adaptive, supportive and protective devices or equipment
  • Environmental changes, focusing on removing barriers to function

Physiotherapists encourage clients to assume responsibility of their health and participate in team approaches to maximize the benefits of physiotherapy.


Intramuscular Stimulation (IMS)

What is IMS?

  • A therapeutic procedure which involves the advancement of a thin acupuncture needle into a dysfunctional muscle that is identified to be the source of pain / discomfort.
  • IMS is an evidence-based, treatment proven to be highly effective for acute and chronic pains, used in both injury rehabilitation and prevention.
  • The goal of this procedure is to release or reset the dysfunctional muscle by removing trigger points that cause pain and restriction from normal movement.
  • IMS needling is within a physiotherapists scope of practice and considered a restricted activity under the Alberta College of Physiotherapists- physios practicing this treatment in Alberta must have received advanced education and pass examinations to be certified.
  • Also known as Trigger Point Dry needling, Functional Dry Needling or Gokavi Transverse technique.

What to expect?

  • Once a needle is inserted in the dysfunctional muscle the patient may experience a spasm or muscle cramp referred to as a “twitch response”.
  • Responses can vary depending on a patient’s age, cause and duration of symptoms.
  • The patient may feel instant relief and improved levels of pain / discomfort following the treatment.
  • Side effects can include fatigue, soreness and bruising, although this normally subsides within 24-48 hours.
  • Following treatment, the patient can resume regular activities and can apply ice / heat for post treatment soreness, although strenuous workouts should be avoided on the day of treatment.
  • This treatment is not recommended for those who have active cancer, are on immunosuppressants or have a bleeding disorder.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does physiotherapy cost in Calgary?

Depending on the length of treatment, costs typically vary from $90 – $160.

How many physio sessions are needed?

Each patient will have a different treatment plan based on their needs, however on average it may take 5 sessions.

Do I need a referral to see a physiotherapist in Alberta?

You do not need a doctor’s referral to see a physio. You should however check with your health benefits to ensure a referral is not required for plan coverage.

What can physiotherapy help with?

Physiotherapy can be used to improve patient mobility and manage pain, and injury prevention.

Does physiotherapy help sciatica?

Physiotherapy can reduce inflammation and decrease muscle tension in order to relieve sciatica pain.

Can physiotherapy and IMS help arthritis symptoms/pain?

Physiotherapy can be helpful to improve patient range of motion and decrease pain caused by osteoarthritis.

Do you have a Pelvic floor physiotherapist?

No, we currently do not offer pelvic floor physio.

How many IMS treatments will I need?

Although you are expected to see some improvement after the first session, it may take 5-10 regular sessions for an injury to be resolved.

How often can you get IMS?

Typically recommended once a week in order to allow muscles time to recover between sessions.

What are the benefits of Intramuscular Needling (IMS) often called dry needling?
  • Can be used to relieve nerve pain
  • Help improve range of motion
  • Increases blood flow
Why is IMS needling so painful?
  • The needle may stimulate muscle contraction, which may cause soreness
  • May feel sore for a day or two post-treatments
Is Acupuncture the same as IMS needling?
  • Acupuncture is based more on traditional Chinese medicine and focuses on acupressure points that are found along energy meridians.
  • Dry needling is based mainly on human anatomy and neurological pathways in order to stimulate nerve fibers
  • It also differs in that during acupuncture, many needles are inserted at time and left in place for 15-30 minutes, while during IMS only 1 needle is inserted and removed fairly quickly.
  • Acupuncture typically has minimal discomfort while IMS needling can be more intense.
What conditions do physiotherapist treat?
  • Bone, joint and soft tissue pain/injuries
  • Sport related injuries
  • Whiplash from a car accident or fall
  • Rehabilitation for brain/nervous injuries (e.g., stroke, MS, Parkinson’s disease)
  • Post-surgery rehabilitation
  • Temporomandibular (TMJ) disorders

COVID-19 Update: Clinic Care as of April 5th

April 4, 2022 By BBH

As of April 5th, our clinic will be transitioning to optional masking for patients, practitioners and staff based upon our Association(s) Guidelines. If you would like your practitioner to wear a mask during treatment or have any concerns, please give us a call to make arrangements for your upcoming appointment and it will be noted on your file. If you are … Read More...

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COVID-19 Update: Clinic Care as of March 1st

March 1, 2022 By BBH

We are currently keeping our existing measures in place as directed by our regulated associations which includes mandatory masking, daily screening of patients, practitioners … Read More...

Health Tip

COVID-19 Update: Clinic…

As of April 5th, our clinic will be transitioning to optional masking for patients, practitioners and staff based upon our Association(s) Guidelines. If you would like your practitioner to wear a mask … Read More...

Health Tip: Neck Pillow…

Looking at purchasing a new pillow but unsure of the cervical type pillows? Try rolling a towel up and placing along the bottom edge of your pillow. When sleeping on your back this will fill the space … Read More...

Back & Body Health
  • Our Clinic
  • Our Team
  • Forms
  • News
  • Private Health Insurance
  • Student Health Plans
  • Recommended Products
Services
  • Active Release Techniques
  • Chiropractic Care
  • Hellerwork
  • Fascial Stretch Therapy
  • Massage Therapy
  • Myofascial Cupping
  • Physiotherapy / IMS Needling
  • Shockwave Therapy
Additional Services
  • Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapy
  • Compression Stockings
  • Custom Orthotics
  • Exercise Rehabilitation
  • Nutrition
  • MVA Claims
  • Health Resources
Contact Info
  • Marda Loop / Altadore Location4018 16th Street SW, Calgary
  • Telephone Number403.209.2225
  • Fax Number403.245.9030 (fax)
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