An Electromyography (EMG) study is a medical test used to evaluate the health and function of muscles and the nerves that control them (motor neurons). It helps diagnose neuromuscular disorders by measuring the electrical activity produced by muscles.
Purpose of EMG
The EMG study is performed to:
- Identify nerve or muscle damage.
- Diagnose neuromuscular conditions.
- Distinguish between nerve disorders and muscle diseases.
What EMG Measures
- Spontaneous activity in resting muscles (which should normally be silent).
- Electrical potentials during voluntary muscle contractions.
- Recruitment pattern of muscle fibers when the muscle is engaged.
How the EMG Study Is Performed
- Needle Electrode Insertion: A fine needle (electrode) is inserted into a specific muscle.
- At Rest: The muscle’s electrical activity is observed while it’s at rest.
- During Contraction: You’re asked to gently or strongly contract the muscle.
- Data Recording: The machine records signals as waveforms and sounds, which the physician interprets.
Conditions Diagnosed by EMG
| Category | Examples |
|---|---|
| Nerve disorders | Radiculopathy (pinched nerve), peripheral neuropathy, carpal tunnel syndrome |
| Muscle diseases | Muscular dystrophy, polymyositis |
| Neuromuscular junction issues | Myasthenia gravis |
| Motor neuron diseases | ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis), spinal muscular atrophy |
Is It Painful?
- The test can be uncomfortable due to the needle electrode.
- You might feel brief pain or soreness, especially when the needle is moved or the muscle is contracted.
Who Performs It?
A neurologist or physical medicine and rehabilitation (PM&R) specialist trained in neuromuscular testing.
All studies are performed on-site using state-of-the-art equipment.
Questions ? You’re Covered
Neurology is a branch of medical science that is concerned with disorders and diseases of the nervous system. The term neurology comes from a combination of two words – “neuron” meaning nerve and “logia” meaning “the study of”.
What does your neurology mean?
Neurology is the branch of medicine concerned with the study and treatment of disorders of the nervous system. The nervous system is a complex, sophisticated system that regulates and coordinates body activities. It has two major divisions: Central nervous system: the brain and spinal cord.
Should I see a neurologist for depression?
If you or a loved one is suffering from depression, visiting a neurologist can help provide some clarity.
Why is neurology important? By learning about the nervous system, we can better understand how or minds and bodies work. Every day we are making new discoveries about the nervous system and how it impacts our lives.
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- No Appointments – Walk-Ins Welcome
- No Insurance Hassles – $0 Copays
- Open Evenings & Weekends
- Quality Care by Licensed Professionals