Gunn IMS
Dry Needling
You may have heard about this novel technique that been increasing in popularity. We will provide answers to many of the common questions that our clients ask before they receive this type of treatment.
What is it?
Gunn IMS is a specific approach to dry needling, which uses a thin stainless steel needle, that is inserted into a taut band of muscle to diagnose and treat injuries.
Is it like acupuncture?
The short answer is no. It uses similar needles to acupuncture but the application is different. Gunn IMS Practitioners are trained to insert and immediately remove the needle to stimulate healing. Acupuncturists will leave needles at certain points in the body that are based on the Traditional Chinese Medicine theory of meridians.
Who is it for?
· People who have had no success with conventional treatments such as massage, stretching, or strengthening exercises
· Highly active individuals
· Those with long standing (chronic) injuries
· People who have tried all sorts of therapies with no luck reducing their pain
How does Gunn IMS differ from other forms of Dry Needling?
Gunn IMS practitioners have been trained to assess chronic pain and find its source which can come from irritated nerves near the spine or tender muscle bands. This technique is supported by clinical research and is taught through the University of British Columbia. Gunn IMS practitioners must meet certain requirements to learn this technique. To learn more, please visit https://www.gunnims.com/what-is-gunn-ims-dry-needling.html.
Does it hurt?
Some people report a pinch, which may be followed by the muscle “grasping” the needle. This will result in relaxation in the area of treatment.
Most people report some soreness, which goes away in 2-3 days. If you’ve had the injury for a while, it may bring up some of the original symptoms. This is often a good sign, as it points towards the site of treatment as the source of pain.
What should I expect afterwards?
You will notice an improvement in your range of motion, the ability to do actions you were not able to do before, and decreased pain and sensitivity. You may notice that muscles that were always tight will now respond better to stretching, strengthening and massaging.
It is important that within 48 hours of treatment, you do not massage, stretch, or lift anything heavy. You can walk for thirty minutes to an hour at a leisurely pace daily to stimulate healing!
Nerves outside the brain and spinal cord are called peripheral nerves. They exchange complex sensory and motor information between the brain and muscle/skin. This picture only crudely represents peripheral nerve connection to a muscle.
Why does it work?
There are a couple reasons:
1. Muscles have stretch receptors that are stimulated, causing lengthening of a tight muscle
2. Needles increase blood flow to stimulate healing in the area
3. Stimulating muscles will excite nerves causing it to function normally again
Who shouldn’t receive this technique?
· If you have plastic or metal implants, or previous surgeries in the region that requires treatment
· Those with blood clotting disorders
· Individuals who are pregnant
· People who are afraid of needles
· Those who have allergies to stainless steel or alcohol
Does this sound like the treatment for you? Book an appointment with Corey today.
References
Gunn, D. C. (n.d.). What is Gunn IMS? - GUNN IMS. Retrieved March 2022, from GUNN IMS: https://www.gunnims.com/what-is-gunn-ims-dry-needling.html
