EMG stands for electromyography, a procedure that's used to diagnose issues affecting the muscles and the motor neurons (nerve cells) that control them. EMGs are especially helpful in diagnosing nerve-related pain following a traumatic or repetitive use injury. The EMG device uses electrodes to transmit and detect tiny electrical nerve impulses between the nerves and the muscles. Some EMGs use electrodes that adhere to the surface of the skin while others use needle electrodes with fine needles gently inserted into the affected muscle. During the test, the electrodes are used to gather information about the nerves and muscles which can be interpreted as graphs or numerical values for assessment.

Why is an EMG performed?

Dr. Kasendorf uses EMGs to assess patients with symptoms such as:

• muscle cramping
• muscle pain or weakness
• numbness or tingling
• pain in the limbs

It may also be used to evaluate treatments in patients with known diseases affecting the muscles, nerves or muscle-to-nerve connections such as peripheral neuropathies, muscular dystrophy, carpal tunnel syndrome or herniated discs.

How is an EMG performed?

EMG testing usually is performed while you're lying down on an exam table. During the test, the doctor will place electrodes at specific spots on your body depending on the symptoms you're experiencing, using either surface electrodes adhered to your skin or tiny needles inserted into the muscle tissue. The electrodes are used to send mild electrical currents through the muscle tissue, and to record data that can be used to evaluate muscle and nerve issues. You may also be asked to contract or relax muscles during the exam. Following a needle EMG, you may have some slight bruising in areas where the needles were inserted, but this should resolve within a few days.