EMG (Electromyography) is a diagnostic test that measures the electrical activity of muscles and nerves. By evaluating the electrical signals produced by muscles at rest and during voluntary contraction, problems originating from muscles or nerves are detected.
Especially in diseases of neurological origin, EMG is a method that helps with differential diagnosis as well as establishing a diagnosis. It is also an important examination in guiding treatment.
In Which Situations Is EMG Performed?
EMG testing is used in the diagnosis of many health problems affecting the muscle and nervous system. Especially:
In such cases, EMG testing is recommended to identify the source of the disease and create the correct treatment plan.
If you have symptoms, consulting a neurology specialist without delay will be one of the healthiest steps.
How Is EMG Performed?
It generally consists of two parts.
EMG results are evaluated by a specialist neurology physician. Based on the EMG result, a diagnosis is made or further examination may be requested.
What Should Be Considered Before EMG?
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- Numbness and tingling in the hand, arm, leg, or face
- Muscle weakness
- Muscle twitching, cramps, or muscle spasms
- Nerve compressions (Entrapment) (for example: Carpal Tunnel Syndrome)
- Nerve compressions related to lumbar and cervical hernias
- Muscle-nerve diseases such as ALS, polyneuropathy, and myopathy
- Nerve Conduction Study (NCS): Small electrodes are placed on the skin. Low-voltage electrical stimuli are delivered to the nerves through the electrodes, and how fast and how the nerves respond to these stimuli is measured.
- Needle EMG (Placement of an Electrode into the Muscle): A thin needle electrode is inserted into the relevant muscle. The electrical signals obtained while the patient is at rest and during muscle contraction are recorded. In this way, the health of the muscle and the nerve controlling it is evaluated.
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- For electromyography to provide healthy results, a shower may be taken before the test, but there should be no lotion/oil on the skin.
- The test does not require fasting. Those using blood thinners should inform their doctor before the test.
- If there is a pacemaker or another electronic medical device implanted in the body, the technician or neurology specialist must be informed before the EMG test.
