Electromyography & Nerve Conduction Studies
Electromyography (EMG) is a test that measures electrical activity from muscles to help detect neuromuscular abnormalities. A nerve conduction study (NCS) is a test commonly used to evaluate the function of the motor and sensory nerves of the human body.
Our physiatrist in Suffolk County may tell you to contract the muscle once the electrode has been inserted. This creates an action potential (the size and shape of the wave) on the oscilloscope, which provides information about the muscle’s responsiveness to nerve stimulation. The more forceful the muscle contraction, the more muscle fibers are activated, which produces an action potential.
Why perform an EMG?
An EMG or nerve conduction test may be performed if you are experiencing signs or symptoms indicating a nerve or muscle disorder. These symptoms may include:
- Tingling
- Numbness
- Muscle weakness
- Muscle pain or cramping
- Limb pain
- Paralysis
- Involuntary muscle twitching (tics)
When individuals experience unexplained muscle weakness, this test helps distinguish between muscle conditions where the problem begins in the muscle itself and nerve disorders as a result of muscle weakness. It also aids in detecting true weakness from weakness due to reduced muscle use, whether this may be because of pain or simply lack of motivation.
What happens during the test?
A technician places electrode patches or tiny needles in the area of the nerve causing the problem. A stimulating electrode sends gentle electrical impulses to the nerve while the other electrodes record the nerve’s response.
What do my EMG results mean?
Electrical activity present in the resting muscle may mean:
- A muscle disorder
- Injury-caused inflammation
- A disorder affecting nerves connected to the muscle
Abnormal electrical activity during the muscle contraction may be the result of:
- A herniated disc
- Nerve disorder such as ALS or carpal tunnel
Our physiatrist in Suffolk County is very thorough and will explain the test results fully so that all questions are answered for the patient.
We can perform EMG testing for our patients at Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation of Long Island. If you have any questions concerning the test, please contact our physiatrist in Suffolk County today for more information.