Welcome to Brentwood Physio’s IMS & Dry Needling Clinic in Calgary, your trusted destination for effective pain relief and muscle recovery.
Our skilled physiotherapists specialize in Intramuscular Stimulation (IMS) and dry needling treatments, targeting trigger points to relieve pain and improve mobility.
Whether you’re recovering from an injury or seeking relief from chronic pain, click the button below to book an appointment or enjoy a complimentary 5-minute consultation to explore how IMS & dry needling can help you on your journey to recovery.
What Is IMS/Dry Needling?
Dry needling, often referred to as Intramuscular Stimulation (IMS), is a specialized treatment technique that utilizes a fine, sterile needle to target and stimulate tight muscle bands, known as trigger points, located beneath the skin. The insertion of the needle into these areas helps to release muscle tension, alleviate pain, and restore normal muscle function.
While both techniques involve the use of needles, dry needling specifically focuses on the treatment of trigger points and muscle dysfunction, while IMS is a broader approach that addresses nerve pain and underlying neurological conditions. Both methods can be effective for various musculoskeletal issues, such as neck pain, shoulder pain, and lower back pain. By disrupting the tightness in muscles, they promote faster recovery and long-term relief from discomfort.

Dry Needling Techniques in Calgary
Dry needling offers different approaches to target and relieve muscle pain, depending on the type and location of the discomfort.
Below are some common techniques used in dry needling:
- In-and-out technique: A more aggressive approach where the needle is rapidly inserted and withdrawn from the trigger point, causing tight muscles to twitch and then relax, providing immediate relief.
- Trigger point technique: Needles are inserted directly into sensitive “trigger points” or knots in muscles caused by injury or overuse. This releases tension, alleviating pain, spasms, and cramps. The needles remain in the muscle briefly to promote relaxation.
- Non-trigger point technique: Needles are placed around, rather than directly on, the painful area to address broader muscle or nerve issues. This approach is effective for chronic pain, as it targets related muscle areas to enhance overall relief.

Why Choose Brentwood Physio?
At Brentwood Physio in Calgary, we specialize in providing expert IMS (Intramuscular Stimulation) treatments to help relieve pain and improve mobility. Our team of highly qualified physiotherapists is experienced in using these evidence-based techniques to target muscle tension, trigger points, and chronic pain, ensuring personalized care for your unique needs.
We create tailored treatment plans focused on long-lasting results, whether you’re dealing with sports injuries, postural imbalances, or chronic pain conditions. With flexible appointment times, direct billing options, and a commitment to patient-centered care, Brentwood Physio is your trusted partner for dry needling in Calgary. Choose us for our expertise, compassionate care, and dedication to helping you feel your best.
Visit us at 789 Northmount Dr NW, Calgary, AB, Canada, and start your recovery journey today!

Dry Needling in Calgary
Dry needling is an effective technique that can be utilized alone or alongside other treatments, such as massage therapy and traditional physiotherapy. This versatile treatment targets a variety of musculoskeletal conditions, including neck pain, back pain, joint pain, and sports injuries. It is also beneficial for managing chronic pain, helping patients regain mobility and reduce discomfort.In Calgary, the city’s turbulent weather can exacerbate conditions like migraines for many residents. According to Dr. Serena Orr, a headache specialist and clinical assistant professor at the University of Calgary, fluctuations in pressure and weather changes can trigger migraines and severe headaches. As Calgary is uniquely affected by these weather patterns, individuals suffering from migraines may find dry needling particularly helpful in alleviating their symptoms and improving their quality of life.

Common Conditions Treated with IMS/Dry Needling
Dry needling is an effective treatment for a variety of musculoskeletal conditions. It can help address both acute and chronic pain, making it a valuable option for many individuals. Some of the common conditions treated with dry needling include:
- Chronic pain: Dry needling can alleviate long-standing pain issues by targeting tight muscles and trigger points that contribute to discomfort.
- Neck pain: This treatment effectively reduces tension and pain in the neck, often resulting from poor posture or repetitive strain.
- Shoulder pain: Whether due to injuries or overuse, dry needling can help relieve pain and restore mobility in the shoulder area.
- Lower back pain: Dry needling can be beneficial for individuals suffering from lower back pain by relaxing tight muscles and improving blood flow.
- Tension headaches: By targeting the muscles in the neck and upper back, dry needling can help reduce the frequency and intensity of tension headaches.
- Sports injuries: Athletes often turn to dry needling to treat muscle strains, sprains, and other injuries, helping to expedite recovery and enhance performance.
- Muscle spasms and cramps: Dry needling can effectively relieve muscle spasms and cramps by promoting relaxation and improving muscle function.
- Fibromyalgia: Individuals with fibromyalgia may find relief from widespread pain and tenderness through dry needling therapy.
- Plantar fasciitis: This condition, characterized by heel pain, can be alleviated with dry needling, targeting tight muscles in the foot and calf.

What Are the Benefits of IMS/Dry Needling?
Research indicates that 85% of patients who underwent dry needling reported satisfaction with the treatment and a willingness to recommend it to others. This technique offers a range of benefits, including:
- Pain relief: Dry needling can significantly reduce pain by targeting tight muscles and trigger points, promoting immediate relief.
- Improved muscle function: By releasing muscle tension, dry needling helps restore normal muscle function, improving overall mobility and range of motion.
- Reduced muscle spasms: The technique effectively alleviates muscle spasms, helping to relax overactive muscles and prevent further discomfort.
- Faster recovery: Dry needling can expedite recovery from injuries by improving blood flow to the affected areas, facilitating healing.
- Enhanced athletic performance: Athletes often benefit from dry needling, as it helps maintain muscle flexibility and function, reducing the risk of injuries.
- Non-invasive treatment: As a minimally invasive procedure, dry needling can be a viable alternative to more invasive treatments like surgery or medications.
- Customized care: Each session can be tailored to individual needs, addressing specific pain points and muscle issues for effective results.
