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Electrodiagnostic Medicine (EMG)

EMG Specialists

Electrodiagnostic (EDX) Medicine is the study of nerve and muscle diseases. To determine whether your nerves and muscles are working properly, your doctor may recommend that you have EDX testing, which may include a nerve conduction study (NCS) and a needle electromyography (EMG) test. The results of the tests help your doctor diagnose your condition and determine the best course of treatment.

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Common Questions

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 30 to 60 minutes. You may perform normal activities like eating, driving, and exercising before and after the tests. There are no lasting side effects.

What happens during the test?

NCS Testing

During the NCS, the doctor applies small stimulations to your nerve(s) to study how the nerve(s) works. These stimulations cause a quick, mild, tingling feeling. The doctor or technologist will test several nerves 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 pain during the study.

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