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Advanced Health Systems
What is intramuscular manual therapy?
Intramuscular manual therapy (IMT) is an invasive procedure in which a solid filament needle is inserted into the skin and muscle directly at a myofascial trigger point. A myofascial trigger point consists of multiple contraction knots, which are related to the production and maintenance of the pain cycle.
Is IMT similar to acupuncture?
This is not the same as acupuncture, an aspect of traditional Chinese medicine, which is based on the metaphysical theory of normalizing energy flow in the body. IMT is a western medical technique that is based on scientific studies and knowledge.
How does IMT work?
There are mechanical and biochemical effects that occur from IMT. Based on the pioneering studies by Dr. Jay Shah and colleagues at the National Institutes of Health, we know that inserting a needle into trigger points can cause favorable biochemical changes, which assist in reducing pain. It is essential to elicit so-called local twitch responses, which are spinal cord reflexes. Getting local twitch responses with IMT is the first step in breaking the pain cycle.
What type of problems can be treated with IMT?
IMT can be used for a variety of musculoskeletal problems. Muscles are thought to be a primary contributing factor to the symptoms. Such conditions include, but are not limited to neck, back and shoulder pain, arm pain (tennis elbow, carpal tunnel, golfer's elbow), headache to include migraines and tension-type headaches, jaw pain, buttock pain and leg pain (sciatica, hamstrings strains, calf tightness/spasms). The treatment of muscles has the greatest effect on reducing pain mechanisms in the nervous system.
Is the procedure painful?
Most patients do not feel the insertion of the needle. The local twitch response elicits a very brief (less than a second) painful sensation. Some patients describe this as a little electrical shock; others feel it more like a cramping sensation. Again, the therapeutic response occurs with the elicitation of local twitch responses and that is a good and desirable reaction.
Are the needles sterile?
Yes, we only use sterile disposable needles.
What side effects can I expect after the treatment?
Most patients report being sore after the procedure. The soreness is described as muscle soreness over the area treated and into the areas of referred symptoms. Typically, the soreness lasts between a few hours and two days.
What should I do after having the procedure done?
Our recommendations vary depending on the amount of soreness you have and on the individual response to the treatment. Recommendations may include applying heat or ice over the area, gentle stretches and modifications of activities.
How long does it take for the procedure to work?
Typically, it takes several visits for a positive reaction to take place. Again, we are trying to cause mechanical and biochemical changes without any pharmacological means. Therefore, we are looking for a cumulative response to achieve a certain threshold after which the pain cycle is disturbed.
Why is my physician not familiar with IMT?
In the US, IMT is a relatively new method for treating myofascial pain and not everyone is already aware of this effective modality. Feel free to inform your doctor about this treatment option. It is upon all of us to educate others about new and innovative ways to treat pain.
Where does IMT fit in the entire rehabilitation program?
Generally speaking, IMT is the modality of choice when it comes to treating patients in the clinic. More frequently, IMT is needed in the beginning in order to break the pain cycle. Once that is achieved, other treatment options are introduced.
Once I am feeling better, how often do I need to come back to maintain my progress?
The musculoskeletal system is under constant pressure from gravity, stress, work etc. A regular exercise program combined with good posture can prevent many problems. If the pain comes back, "tune-ups" are recommended to treat and prevent serious injuries.
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Panhandle Dental
At Panhandle Dental, our goal is to make it easy for you to smile. From the moment you step into our facility and through your entire dental visit, our dentist, technicians, certified dental assistants, and office staff will make every effort to help you feel welcome, comfortable, and relaxed.
Whether you see us for general dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, orthodontics, teeth cleaning, full dentures or partials, Panhandle Dental provides patient care and quality of service that is second to none.
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