Shoulder Pain Management with IMS Dry Needling: What You Need to Know

 

Shoulder pain is a frequent fitness issue that can affect people of all ages and backgrounds. It is caused by a variety of circumstances and can range from minor discomfort to severe, incapacitating agony. Understanding the origins, symptoms, and potential therapies for shoulder pain is critical for managing shoulder pain treatment successfully.

Causes of Shoulder Pain:

• Frozen Shoulder

 This condition causes the shoulder joint to become stiff and painful, often limiting its range of motion.

• Arthritis

 Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis can affect the shoulder joint, leading to pain and stiffness.

• Fractures 

A broken collarbone (clavicle), humers (upper arm bone), or scapula (shoulder blade) can cause severe shoulder pain.

• Nerve Impingement 

Compression or pinching of nerves in the shoulder region, such as the brachial plexus or suprascapular nerve, can lead to shoulder pain and weakness.

Symptoms of Shoulder Pain:

The symptoms of shoulder pain can vary depending on the underlying cause, but they may include:

• Not able to move the joints properly and weakness
• Difficulty in lifting objects or performing daily activities
• Swelling or inflammation
• Clicking or popping sensations during shoulder movements
• Numbness or tingling in the arm or hand.

IMS (Intramuscular Stimulation) or dry needling is a specialized technique used by healthcare professionals, such as physiotherapists, chiropractors, and sports medicine practitioners, to treat myofascial pain and muscle dysfunction. IMS/dry needling involves the insertion of thin, solid needles into specific points within the muscles, tendons, ligaments, or fascia to alleviate pain and improve muscle function. It is also ideal for shoulder pain treatment and various other types of pain. 

Key Points about IMS or Dry Needling: 

• Targeting Trigger Points

The primary goal of IMS/dry needling is to target trigger points, also known as myofascial trigger points. These are tight knots or hyper-irritable spots within a muscle that can cause pain, muscle tension, and limited range of motion. By inserting a needle directly into these trigger points, the therapist aims to release tension and promote muscle relaxation.

• Pain Sensation:

 During the procedure, the patient may feel a slight prick or mild discomfort as the needle is inserted into the trigger point. However, the pain is generally brief and tolerable. Some patients may also experience a local twitch response, which can be described as a brief, involuntary muscle contraction.

• Integration with Other Therapies:

 IMS/dry needling is often integrated into a comprehensive treatment plan that may include physical therapy, exercise, and other modalities to optimize the patient's recovery and rehabilitation.

• Post-Treatment Sensation: 

After the session, patients may experience some soreness or mild discomfort in the area that is being treated but the pain subsides in a few days and the patient feels better than before. In a few sessions one gains mobility and is free of any dicomfort. 

It's important to note that IMS/dry needling may not be suitable for everyone, and its effectiveness can vary depending on individual factors and the condition being treated. 

Conclusion: It's essential to seek professional medical advice for a proper diagnosis and tailored treatment plan for shoulder pain and dry needling. Early intervention and appropriate care can help prevent further complications and promote a faster recovery from shoulder pain. Contact https://prestigephysio.ca to book an appointment today!