Gunn IMS (Intramuscular Stimulation), acupuncture, and dry needling are similar treatments but here’s how each compares to the other in terms of their techniques, purposes, and approaches:
GUNN IMS (Intramuscular Stimulation):
Technique: Gunn IMS is a form of treatment developed by Dr. Chan Gunn. It involves the use of thin, solid needles that are inserted into muscles to target deep muscle trigger points or areas of muscle tightness.
Purpose: Gunn IMS aims to release muscle tension, alleviate pain, and improve muscle function. The treatment is based on the belief that muscle tightness and trigger points can lead to chronic pain and dysfunction.
Approach: Gunn IMS focuses on diagnosing and treating muscle imbalances and nerve irritations that contribute to pain. The goal is to restore normal muscle function by releasing tight bands of muscle fibers.
Acupuncture:
Technique: Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese practice that involves inserting thin needles into specific points along the body’s energy pathways, known as meridians.
Purpose: Acupuncture aims to restore the flow of Qi (life force energy) through the body’s meridians. It is believed that imbalances in Qi can lead to pain, illness, or dysfunction.
Approach: Acupuncture is rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) principles and seeks to balance the body’s energy flow. Needles are inserted into specific acupuncture points to stimulate or regulate Qi.
DRY NEEDLING:
Technique: Dry needling involves the insertion of thin needles directly into trigger points, tight muscles, or fascia (connective tissue). It does not involve injecting any substances.
Purpose: Dry needling aims to release muscle tension, improve circulation, and alleviate pain. It is often used to address muscular issues and musculoskeletal pain.
Approach: Dry needling is grounded in Western medicine principles and focuses on relieving muscle knots and trigger points that can contribute to pain and dysfunction. It may involve inserting needles into areas of muscle tightness or knots.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
Ultimately, the choice between these techniques depends on your individual needs, preferences, and the expertise of the practitioner. It’s important to consult with a qualified healthcare professional to determine which approach is most suitable for your condition and goals.
- Philosophy: Gunn IMS and dry needling are Western medicine approaches, targeting muscular issues and trigger points. Acupuncture is based on Traditional Chinese Medicine principles, focusing on Qi flow and meridians.
- Needle Insertion: Gunn IMS and dry needling involve inserting needles directly into muscles or trigger points. Acupuncture needles are inserted into specific acupuncture points along meridians.
- Pain Relief: All three methods aim to alleviate pain, but the underlying theories and techniques differ.
- Training: At our studio, Acupuncture and IMS / Dry Needling are performed by certified physiotherapists or Registered Acupuncturists.
BEFORE YOUR VISIT:
- It is recommended to refrain from alcohol, caffeine, and smoking two hours prior to and after treatment.
- Have a light snack prior to treatment.
- If you have a pacemaker or are trying to conceive/are pregnant, please inform your therapist as you may not be a suitable candidate.
- If you see a physiotherapist for Acupuncture and IMS / Dry Needling, the service is included in your usual physiotherapy fees. If you see a Registered Acupuncturist, please see our rates page.
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LEARN MORE Meet Our PHYSIOTHERAPISTS
BSC.KIN, MPT, CAFCI, CGIMS (HE/HIM/HIS)
Kelvin completed his Masters of Physical Therapy at the University of British Columbia after obtaining his Bachelor of Kinesiology from Simon Fraser University. He has years of experience in both private practice and work rehabilitation treating a variety of soft tissue, orthopaedic and neurological injuries. Through this experience, it has taught him two simple things:
1. To listen and focus on the needs of the client.
2. To ensure the client is engaged and taking an active role in their rehabilitation process.
This collaborative and holistic approach to treating injuries allows him to empower the client in their recovery and prevent future injuries.
Kelvin completed his Masters of Physical Therapy at the University of British Columbia after obtaining his Bachelor of Kinesiology from Simon Fraser University. He has years of experience in both private practice and work rehabilitation treating a variety of soft tissue, orthopaedic and neurological injuries. Through this experience, it has taught him two simple things:
1. To listen and focus on the needs of the client.
2. To ensure the client is engaged and taking an active role in their rehabilitation process.
This collaborative and holistic approach to treating injuries allows him to empower the client in their recovery and prevent future injuries.
Kelvin enjoys taking a very hands-on approach and has completed further education courses in Soft Tissue Release Therapy, Acupuncture, Chan Gunn IMS and Vestibular Therapy. He strives to continue learning and is in the process of completing his Orthopaedic and Manual therapy certifications. He also speaks fluent Cantonese and English and has conversational Mandarin.
In his spare time, Kelvin stays fit by playing volleyball, basketball, running after his kids and working out in the gym. He believes in maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle, and wants to help you achieve that goal as well!
BSC, MSCPT (HE/HIM/HIS)
Alex is originally from Cambridge, U.K. He began his health and fitness career as a personal trainer and sports massage therapist in 2008. He graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise and Health, as well as a Masters in Physiotherapy. Alex relocated to Vancouver in 2017.
Alex is originally from Cambridge, U.K. He began his health and fitness career as a personal trainer and sports massage therapist in 2008. He graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise and Health, as well as a Masters in Physiotherapy. Alex relocated to Vancouver in 2017.
As a registered physiotherapist, Alex enjoys treating patients with sports injuries. He has a special interest in running injuries, ACL rehabilitation, and return to play. Alex is an avid runner, competing in ultra-marathons. He uses his knowledge and expertise in running within his physiotherapy practice. He offers his patients running assessments with the aim of keeping his runners injury-free.
Alex is very passionate about the importance of early physiotherapy intervention as well as the value of injury prevention. He uses a variety of evidence based treatment modalities, primarily hands on and exercise prescription, that is individualized to each patient.
Outside of Launch Rehab, Alex enjoys running, weight lifting, soccer, hiking, and cycling.
MPHTY, BSCKIN, CGIMS (HE/HIM/HIS)
Chris completed his Master of Physiotherapy at Sydney University, Australia in 2010 after completing his Bachelors of Science in Kinesiology at Simon Fraser University. Since graduating, he has completed his Acupuncture Canada Certification Level 1. Chris also implements Gunn IMS which can assist in restoring dysfunction in patients with chronic nagging issues that do not seem to improve, even with exercises.
Chris completed his Master of Physiotherapy at Sydney University, Australia in 2010 after completing his Bachelors of Science in Kinesiology at Simon Fraser University. Since graduating, he has completed his Acupuncture Canada Certification Level 1. Chris also implements Gunn IMS which can assist in restoring dysfunction in patients with chronic nagging issues that do not seem to improve, even with exercises.
With on-field experience as a trainer/physio for high school football teams and recreational rugby teams, Chris utilizes his hands-on approach to his work on the field and in the clinic. He has years of experience in private practice covering a wide range of acute and chronic conditions which include post-operative surgeries, chronic myofascial syndromes, motor vehicle related injuries, and workplace injuries.
Chris spends his spare time gardening, completing DIY projects on his home, cooking and travelling. He remains active by playing basketball, hiking, snowboarding, and keeping up with his 3 young children.
MPT, BKIN (THEY/THEM/THEIRS)
Sherine completed their Master of Physical Therapy and Bachelor of Kinesiology degrees at The University of British Columbia. They have additional certification under the Orthopaedic Division of the Canadian Physiotherapy Association. Sherine is fluent in English and Cantonese.
Sherine completed their Master of Physical Therapy and Bachelor of Kinesiology degrees at The University of British Columbia. They have additional certification under the Orthopaedic Division of the Canadian Physiotherapy Association. Sherine is fluent in English and Cantonese.
Growing up practicing kickboxing and Muay Thai, they developed a fascination with the movement of the human body; having experienced many sporting injuries as well, they developed an interest in studying human biomechanics and rehabilitation. Sherine believes in an active approach to physical therapy, utilizing a combination of exercise, manual therapy, education and modalities to help clients achieve their goals and return to the activities they love. At each one-on-one session, you can expect Sherine to provide a comfortable environment for you to have your needs and concerns heard and met with a personalized treatment plan.
In their free time, Sherine enjoys lifting weights at the gym, practicing Muay Thai and reading thriller novels. Occasionally, they will be found completing jigsaw puzzles.
MPT, BKIN (HE/HIM/HIS)
Jin obtained his Master of Physical Therapy from the University of British Columbia where he also completed his Bachelor of Kinesiology. Jin’s passion for physiotherapy first started when he saw his sister battle chronic pain from a major motor vehicle accident. He was inspired by how physiotherapy and exercise can truly make a difference in someone’s life. Jin believes that patient empowerment matters. He strives to listen to the needs and goals of his clients to come up with an individualized treatment plan in their recovery.
Jin obtained his Master of Physical Therapy from the University of British Columbia where he also completed his Bachelor of Kinesiology. Jin’s passion for physiotherapy first started when he saw his sister battle chronic pain from a major motor vehicle accident. He was inspired by how physiotherapy and exercise can truly make a difference in someone’s life. Jin believes that patient empowerment matters. He strives to listen to the needs and goals of his clients to come up with an individualized treatment plan in their recovery.
Jin has an interest in treating various musculoskeletal conditions from everyday back pain to sports injuries. He also believes that there are no small injuries; regardless of how it happened, he will treat according to the latest evidence-based practices and exercises to help prevent the injury from re-occurring.
Jin was born in South Korea and immigrated to Vancouver at the age of 10. He grew up in Port Moody and Burnaby representing his school in track and field and soccer. Jin fully embraces both his Canadian and Korean cultures; Jin is fluent in both English and Korean. During his free time, Jin likes to stay active through spikeball, soccer, and neighbourhood strolls with his dog Cookie.
MSCPT, ACCDN (HE/HIM/HIS)
Kevin graduated with a Bachelor of Kinesiology at University of British Columbia and completed his Master of Science in Physical Therapy at University of Toronto.
Kevin graduated with a Bachelor of Kinesiology at University of British Columbia and completed his Master of Science in Physical Therapy at University of Toronto.
Kevin has experience in helping people recover from sports injuries, post-operative surgeries, and chronic pain. He takes the time to fully understand your pain and takes a holistic approach to help attain your goals. His treatment techniques include manual therapy, exercise prescription, and dry needling. Kevin has also pursued additional education and completed his Level 2 Upper and Lower Advanced Integrated Musculoskeletal Program.
Outside of the clinic, Kevin is playing volleyball, basketball, or tennis. Kevin is fluent in English and conversational in Cantonese.
BKIN, MPT (HE/HIM/HIS)
Adrian completed his Master of Physical Therapy (MPT) from the University of British Columbia after completing his Bachelor of Kinesiology at UBC.
Adrian completed his Master of Physical Therapy (MPT) from the University of British Columbia after completing his Bachelor of Kinesiology at UBC.
Adrian has an extensive research background working with individuals with spinal cord injury and a wide range of experience working with athletes, ICBC claims, workplace injuries, post-surgical rehabilitation, and weekend warriors. His athletic background in triathlons, volleyball, and basketball helps him relate to his client’s experiences and empower them throughout the rehabilitation process.
Adrian uses a combined approach of hands-on techniques, corrective exercises, and education to help clients achieve their movement goals and move more pain-free. He has completed his AN-IMS 1 Certification (Dry Needling), Level 1 Orthopedic Certification with the Canadian Physiotherapy Association, advanced courses in vestibular therapy, and numerous seminars.
Adrian enjoys staying fit by playing volleyball, golfing and weight training. Other hobbies Adrian enjoys are woodworking, DIY projects, gardening, going to the beach and trying out new foods!
Adrian understands English and basic Cantonese.
Meet Our REGISTERED ACUPUNCTURIST
R.AC. MS.DIPL.AC. (NCCAOM) (SHE/HERS/HER)
Yamani earned her Master’s of Science degree in Acupuncture in New York City. Since 2008, she has had extensive work experience in multidisciplinary pain clinics many patients have benefited from her care. Her life’s mission has always been to help and heal, and acupuncture has allowed her to maximally benefit others.
Yamani earned her Master’s of Science degree in Acupuncture in New York City. Since 2008, she has had extensive work experience in multidisciplinary pain clinics many patients have benefited from her care. Her life’s mission has always been to help and heal, and acupuncture has allowed her to maximally benefit others.
Although thoroughly versed in many different treatment categories, she also specializes in auto injuries. She is skilled in precise needle protocols and techniques, that allow her to give better, more efficient treatment, than typical. Always driven to improve herself, she has diligently studied with great master practitioners. Through this, she has developed a profound understanding of best practices, and how to adapt to each patient’s needs.
She specializes in – but is not limited to – TCM, Kiiko Matsumoto style Acupuncture, Acupressure, Myofascial/Trigger point release, Facial acupuncture, Electro Acupuncture, Cupping, Guasha, and many other forms of therapy. Yamani has been a NCCAOM diplomat since 2008.
Yamani is proficient in English and Japanese.
We live, work, and play on the unceded territory of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and səl̓ilwətaɁɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations.
We live, work, and play on the unceded territory of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and səl̓ilwətaɁɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations.
