Intramuscular Stimulation (IMS) is a type of manual therapy that involves the insertion of thin, solid needles into the muscle tissue to release tension and relieve pain. It is a form of acupuncture, but it focuses more specifically on the muscles rather than the traditional Chinese acupuncture points.
IMS is based on the theory that chronic pain is often caused by muscle shortening, which puts pressure on nerves and causes pain signals to be sent to the brain. By inserting needles into the shortened muscle fibers, IMS can stimulate a healing response and help to release the tension in the muscle tissue, thereby reducing pain and restoring normal movement.
IMS is typically performed by a trained practitioner, such as a physiotherapist or chiropractor, who will assess the patient’s muscle tension and pain levels before inserting the needles. The needles are usually left in place for a few minutes, and the treatment may be repeated several times over the course of several weeks to achieve optimal results.
In Alberta, physiotherapists are considered primary care providers, so you can see a private one without requiring your doctor’s referral.
However, your physician will likely refer you to a physiotherapist for post-surgery recovery or an extended medical issue needing specialized attention. It is common for physiotherapists to collaborate with other healthcare professionals such as a doctor, occupational therapists and massage therapists to develop an individualized treatment plan for you.
In addition, if your private health insurance covers physiotherapy, you may need to provide a doctor’s referral for the insurer to cover the cost of your treatment.
Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in managing Parkinson’s disease. The aim is to help patients maintain their physical abilities, independence, and quality of life. Physiotherapists may design exercise programs to improve strength, balance, and coordination, and work with patients on practical tasks such as walking and speaking. They may also educate patients and their families about the disease and its effects. Physiotherapy is a key component of a comprehensive approach to managing Parkinson’s disease.
You should visit a physiotherapist if your pain is mechanical. Also, other reasons you may choose to attend a physical therapy session include when the pain is not going away, the pain has severely affected movement, or it prevents you from sporting activities. Any of these reasons show that it is time to see a physiotherapist.
Physiotherapy itself may not directly cure insomnia, as insomnia is a complex condition with various underlying factors. However, physiotherapy can play a supportive role in managing insomnia by addressing related factors such as musculoskeletal pain, tension, and stress.
Seeking physiotherapy in Alberta can provide many benefits, including pain relief, improved physical function, increased mobility, better posture and balance, enhanced performance, and prevention of future injuries or conditions.
A physiotherapy session in Alberta usually lasts between 30 minutes to one hour, depending on the individual’s needs and the treatment being provided. The duration may vary based on the complexity of the condition and the specific goals of the session.
IMS can be used to treat headaches and migraines, especially if they are caused by tension and tightness in the neck, shoulders, and upper back muscles. By targeting these areas with acupuncture needles, IMS can help release tension and promote circulation, which may alleviate headache symptoms.
In some cases, headaches and migraines may also be caused by trigger points or knots in the muscles of the neck and shoulders. IMS can be used to release these trigger points, which may provide relief from headache symptoms.
It is important to note that IMS may not be effective for all types of headaches and migraines. Your healthcare practitioner can help determine if IMS is a suitable treatment option for your specific condition, and may recommend other treatments or therapies in addition to IMS. It is also important to consult with a healthcare practitioner if you experience frequent or severe headaches, as they may be a symptom of an underlying medical condition.
Pelvic floor physiotherapy can be done at home, but you should see a pelvic floor physiotherapist first because often people are not getting good contractions or relaxation without cueing. Your physiotherapist will provide you with a treatment plan that includes pelvic floor exercises, education on how to manage your symptoms, and lifestyle changes.
A physiotherapist can play an important role in helping individuals with fibromyalgia manage their symptoms and improve their overall quality of life. Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition that is characterized by widespread pain, fatigue, and tenderness in the muscles and soft tissues. Physiotherapy can help to alleviate these symptoms by addressing the underlying physical causes of the condition.
A physiotherapist can work with individuals with fibromyalgia to develop an exercise program that is tailored to their specific needs. This may include exercises to improve flexibility and strength, as well as activities such as swimming, cycling or walking to increase physical endurance and improve cardiovascular health. The main aims of physiotherapy in the treatment of fibromyalgia are to reduce your pain and stiffness using a combination of strategies.
A variety of things can put pressure on pelvic floor muscles, including chronic health conditions, obesity, age, pregnancy, and childbirth. Lifting heavy objects, coughing, and sneezing can also put pressure on pelvic floor muscles.
