The physicians of Muir Orthopaedic Specialists believe good medical care is a result of mutual understanding, respect and trust.  In today's fast paced world, we recognize the importance of communication and spend as much time as possible to provide information explaining condition and treatment options so that our patients can make informed decisions about their care.

ELECTROMYOGRAPHY
Electromyography (EMG) is used to help your doctor diagnose diseases and injuries of the nervous system.  Your doctor has requested an EMG examination in order to more precisely diagnose your condition, as well as gauge its severity

Scheduling 
EMG testing is performed at Muir Orthopaedic Specialists (MOS), by a physician specialized in the technique.  Scheduling and authorization will be handled entirely by MOS and can usually be accomplished in three to five business days.  All efforts are made to schedule testing and a follow-up appointment at a convenient time and date.  If you are unable to keep your testing appointment, we ask that you notify the staff at MOS at least 48 hours prior to your test date so that alternate arrangements can be made.  You will need to arrive approximately 30 minutes early at the examination to allow for preparation.

Occasionally, insurance coverage requires an outside physician to perform the test and there are several qualified physicians in the area.  It is usually a one-time visit with this outside physician, requiring one to two hours.   

EMG Testing 
There are typically two parts to the EMG test.  The first portion of the exam is called nerve conduction studies (NCS), where gentle stimulation of the nerves in the arms, neck, back or legs is performed with surface electrodes.  The impulses are then recorded by a sophisticated machine, which measures the speed of the nerve conduction.  The second part of the examination is called electromyography (EMG).  This involves placing extremely fine needles into the surface of various muscles.  The electrical activity of the muscle is recorded at rest and during active contraction and is displayed on sophisticated equipment.  The entire test can be completed in about one hour.  EMG testing is typically not painful, but some patients can experience varying degrees of discomfort, which usually resolves within 24 hours.  No specific treatment is necessary.

The EMG examination enables your physician to more precisely diagnose musculoskeletal and nerve disorders and provides information that cannot be obtained in any other fashion.  For example, a pinched nerve in the neck or lower back can demonstrate abnormal electrical patterns in the muscles.  The test can identify sites of nerve irritation, such as the wrist or elbow.  Testing can also help distinguish diseases of the peripheral nerve system such as diabetes.

Results of the EMG examination will be discussed at a follow-up visit.  This will allow your physician to interpret the results, as well as discuss further treatment options.

Following the EMG examination, patients may resume their normal activities without restrictions.  If you have any concerns, however, please contact your doctor at MOS.

Copyright 2003 Muir Orthopaedic Specialists