Intramuscular Stimulation in Greenville, SC
Intramuscular Stimulation at IHP Greenville. Dr. Hendry, DAOM — NCCAOM-certified, 25+ yrs experience, hospital-credentialed. Call (864) 365-6156.
Intramuscular stimulation (IMS) — also known as Gunn IMS — is a dry needling approach developed by Dr. Chan Gunn that specifically targets muscle shortening associated with neuropathic pain and supersensitivity. Where conventional trigger point dry needling targets the trigger point knot itself, IMS targets the shortened, supersensitive muscle that results from denervation supersensitivity in the context of nerve irritation or injury. At Integrative Health Partners, Dr. Hendry uses IMS protocols for neuropathic pain, complex regional pain, and conditions where standard dry needling has produced incomplete results.
How Intramuscular Stimulation Works
IMS assessment identifies shortened muscle bands through physical examination — looking for muscle belly shortening, skin rolling texture changes, and autonomic skin signs. Needles are inserted into the shortened muscle belly (often the muscle belly, not the focal trigger point), eliciting a stretch reflex response that indicates neural connection. This response is different from the LTR of conventional dry needling — it reflects the release of neuropathic muscle shortening.
Conditions Treated with Intramuscular Stimulation
Your First Appointment
IMS is particularly valuable for patients with neuropathic pain (burning, tingling, shooting pain), failed back surgery syndrome, or pain that has persisted beyond the expected healing time. Bring any nerve conduction studies, MRI reports, or prior pain management records.
Why Dr. Hendry for Intramuscular Stimulation
Dr. Hendry's understanding of neuropathic pain mechanisms — informed by his electroacupuncture research and Prisma Health experience — makes him especially well-suited to apply IMS principles for complex neuropathic presentations.