Electromyography tests how nerves and muscles work. It is usually performed together with nerve conduction studies. The tests are advised for tingling, numbness, weakness, muscle wasting, cramps or pain that may arise from nerve compression, neuropathy, nerve root problems or muscle disease.

At Apex, nerve conduction studies come first. Small sensors on the skin deliver brief, mild electrical pulses, and the response in the nerve or muscle is recorded. For the EMG itself, a very fine needle is inserted into selected muscles, and the electrical activity is recorded at rest and during gentle contraction. The doctor may ask the patient to tense and relax a muscle. The whole session usually takes between 30 and 60 minutes, depending on how many nerves and muscles are tested.

Patients should tell the doctor if they take blood thinners or have a pacemaker or other implanted device. Warm hands and feet help the quality of the recording.

How the Procedure Can Help

EMG and nerve conduction studies can show whether the problem lies in a nerve, the spinal root or the muscle, and how severe it is. This helps the doctor choose treatment and decide whether a surgical opinion is needed.

Risks and Considerations

Discomfort from the needle and the electrical pulses is usually brief and tolerable. Mild bruising or soreness may follow. Infection is very uncommon, and bleeding can occur in people on blood thinners.