EMG (Electromyography)
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What is EMG?
Electromyography (EMG) is a diagnostic test that measures the health of muscles and the nerve cells controlling them. It records the electrical activity of muscles during rest and contraction to detect abnormalities. EMG helps doctors diagnose muscle disorders, nerve damage, and motor neuron diseases like ALS. The test is safe, reliable, and widely used in evaluating neuromuscular conditions.
Why is EMG Important?
EMG is essential for diagnosing conditions that cause muscle weakness, numbness, tingling, or pain. It helps identify disorders such as herniated discs, pinched nerves, muscular dystrophy, and peripheral nerve diseases. EMG also guides treatment decisions, including whether surgery or physical therapy is needed.
Basic EMG Tests:
Needle EMG – thin needle electrodes inserted into muscles to record electrical activity
Surface EMG – non-invasive, electrodes placed on the skin to measure muscle activity
Nerve Conduction Study (NCS) – often done with EMG to assess nerve signal speed and strength
Evoked Potentials – measures nerve response to stimulation for further diagnosis
What to Expect:
During the EMG, small electrodes or fine needles are placed on or into the muscle. The machine records the electrical signals as you relax or contract the muscle. The test may cause mild discomfort during needle insertion, but it is generally well tolerated and safe. Results are reviewed by a neurologist to confirm muscle or nerve conditions and plan the right treatment.