What is an EMG?

Electromyography (EMG) explores potential causes of numbness, tingling, pain, weakness or cramping. A test may consist of one or two parts, including Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS) and Needle EMG.

Nerve Conduction Studies examine the body’s signals traveling in your nerves. A doctor gives several nerves small electrical shocks and records the response. You may feel a quick tingling feeling.

If the needle EMG portion of the test is needed, a small, thin needle is inserted in several muscles to see measure muscle health and evaluate its nerve supply. A new needle is used for each patient and securely discarded following each test.

You may feel some discomfort during the insertion and movement of the needle. We test only the muscles needed for diagnosis.

Preparing for your EMG

Tests typically take between 30 to 90 minutes.

On the morning of the test, please bathe or shower prior.

Do NOT apply any lotion or moisturizer or vaseline on the day of the test. It can interfere with the recording. It is fine to use deodorant or antiperspirant.

You may eat and drink prior.

The test has no lasting side effects and you can drive and resume normal activities after the test is completed.

Let the physician performing the test know if you are on any blood thinners such as Coumadin, Lovenox, Xeralto, Apixaban or if you have a pacemaker, breast implants, or have hemophilia.

We answer questions before, during and after the test and discuss the results with each patient.