EMG Specialists

EMG specialists are trained in the subspecialty of Electrodiagnostic (EDX) medicine. They use a patient’s history, physical exam, and test results that analyze electrical impulses between muscles and nerves to diagnose, evaluate, and treat neuromuscular, musculoskeletal, and nervous system disorders.

Doctors who perform EMGs complete four years of medical school, followed by an additional four years of training in a Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation or Neurology residency program. This medical training helps doctors determine which tests to perform based on a patient’s symptoms and understand the various conditions that can affect the human body, allowing them to differentiate between disorders.

What is Elecrtrodiagnostic Medicine?

Electrodiagnostic (EDX) medicine is the study of nerve and muscle diseases. To assess whether your nerves and muscles are functioning properly, your doctor may recommend EDX testing, which includes nerve conduction studies (NCS) and needle electromyography (EMG). The results of these tests help your doctor diagnose your condition and determine the most effective treatment plan.

Why was Electrodiagnostic Medicine Reccomended to Me?

EMGs are ordered for individuals experiencing numbness, tingling, pain, weakness, or muscle cramping. Your doctor will use one or more electrodiagnostic (EDX) tests to determine if your muscles or nerves are damaged and how best to treat you.

On the day of the test, bathe or shower to remove oil from your skin, and avoid using body lotion. Take your regular medications as usual. However, do not consume alcohol, marijuana/THC, or use recreational drugs on the day of testing.

Each study is tailored to your specific symptoms, so the duration may vary. Most tests take between 45 to 60 minutes. You can continue normal activities such as eating, driving, and exercising before and after the test. There are no lasting side effects.

How long does the test take?

Each study is customized based on your symptoms, so the duration varies for each patient. Most tests take between 45 to 60 minutes. You can continue normal activities such as eating, driving, and exercising before and after the test. There are no lasting side effects.

What will happen during the test?

NCS Testing

During the NCS, the doctor applies small electrical stimulations to your nerves to assess their function. These stimulations create a quick, mild tingling sensation, similar to a static shock. Multiple nerves will be tested during your study.

Needle EMG Testing

During the EMG test, the doctor inserts a small, thin needle into several muscles. The doctor is able to hear and see how your muscles and nerves are working by the way electrical signals travel from the needle to the EMG machine. The doctor then uses his or her specialized medical knowledge to determine the cause of your symptoms. The only muscles tested are those needed to decide what is wrong. A new needle is used for each patient and is thrown away after the test. There may be a small amount of discomfort during the study.

After the tests are complete, the doctor will analyze your data and send a report to your referring doctor. After the examination, check with your doctor for the next step in your care.

How long does the test take?

Each study is designed especially for you based on your symptoms. The length of the test is different for every patient. The tests usually take 45 to 60 minutes. You may perform normal activities like eating, driving, and exercising before and after the tests. There are no lasting side effects.

How Will I get the Results?

After the test is complete the physician will analyze the data and send a report to your doctor who will review the results with you and discuss the next step in your care.