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EMG
An Electromyogram (EMG) measures the electrical activity in a muscle in response to stimulation. It is used in conjunction with a neurological exam to help physicians diagnose a wide range of problems, including:
• Nerve damage from disk compression in the neck or back
• Nerve compression from carpal tunnel syndrome
• Neuromuscular diseases such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), poliomyelitis, myasthenia gravis, and muscular dystrophy
• Peripheral neuropathy caused by conditions such as diabetes, pernicious anemia, and heavy metal toxicity
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Preparation
• Your arms and legs should be clean and free of lotions or creams.
• Meals and medication may be taken unless your physician advises otherwise.
Testing
The test consists of two parts.
(1) In the nerve conduction study, electrodes are placed on the skin and a safe level of electrical stimulation is sent through the nerve. Patients wearing pacemakers are not at risk, since this current is not strong enough or close enough to the pacemaker to interfere with its operation.
2) In the second part, the EMG, a tiny pin is inserted under the surface of the skin into the muscle. Electrical stimulation will indicate if there is damage to a specific nerve, or if the problem involves the muscle itself.
The test will take between 30 to 60 minutes.
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