

The certified technician may test several nerves. These shocks cause a quick, mild, tingling feeling. This is done by applying small electrical shocks to the nerve and recording how the nerve works. Nerve conduction studies show how well the body’s electrical signals are traveling to a nerve. The physician then uses his medical knowledge to figure out what could be causing your problem. During the EMG test the physician will be able to hear and see how your muscles and nerves are working by the electrical signals made by your muscles. The physician tests only the muscles necessary to decide what is wrong. There may be a small amount of pain during this part of the examination. It is used once for each patient and is thrown away after the test. You may take over-the-counter pain medication if you wish, as they do not affect test results.Electromyography (EMG) is a test that helps in assessing the function of the muscles and Nerve Conduction Study (NCS): Assesses the nerves controlling the muscles and the junction between a nerve and a muscle.įor this test, a small, thin needle is inserted into several muscles to see if there are any problems. If you are taking blood-thinning medications or pyridostigmine (Mestinon), please contact our office prior to your exam.Bring a list of medications you are taking.Eat your normal meals (but you may wish to avoid tobacco or caffeine for a few hours prior to your test).Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothes, and remember to bring shorts and a short-sleeved or sleeveless shirt.Often, EMG testing is performed with another test that measures the conducting function of nerves. Bathe or shower on the day of the test wash arms and legs well to remove body oils Electromyography, or EMG, involves testing the electrical activity of muscles.

To prepare for an EMG, please do the following: You may experience some discomfort during the tests, but they generally are not painful. Mild electrical shocks are given to stimulate the nerve. Part of the study may involve small needles that are inserted into the muscle. They are most often used to assess symptoms of pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness. These studies measure and record electrical activity from the muscles and nerves.
