Professional Advice

Kalamazoo Gazette, Nov.4, 2010

Botulinum- Other Uses
Trigeminal Neuralgia
Thyroid Neuropathy
Fatigue in Multiple Sclerosis
Jaw stiffness and spasms
Hyperhidrosis-Excessive sweating in palms and feet
Parkinson's Disease - Non-motor symptoms
Dystonia
Diabetic Neuropathy
Tremors
Prediabetes and Neuropathy
Hyperhidrosis treatment
Peripheral Neuropathy Prognosis
Slowness Bradykinesia
Spasticity

Q) What is EMG testing?

Electromyography (EMG) is a form of electrodiagnostic testing that is used to study nerve and muscle function. EMG testing can provide your doctor with specific information about the extent of nerve and/or muscle injury, determine the exact location of injury and give some indication whether the damage is reversible.

Q) What should you expect?

There are two parts to EMG testing: a nerve conduction study and a needle exam for muscle testing. Both may result in some discomfort, but are usually well tolerated. The nerve conduction study consists of stimulating the nerves at different points with small electric shocks so that their function can be measured. The needle exam involves placing a very fine needle into carefully selected muscles. The needle has a microscopic electrode that picks up both the normal and abnormal electrical signals given off by a muscle.

Q) What you should know before the exam?

An EMG test is extremely safe. EMG needles are used for only one patient and are immediately disposed off following use. The test takes anywhere from 30 to 90 minutes. A report that includes the results and an interpretation will be sent to your doctor.

Q)How should I prepare for the test?

Tell your physician if you are taking aspirin, blood thinners, have a pacemaker, hemophilia or are pregnant. Take a bath or shower to remove oil from your skin. Do not use body lotion on the day of the test. You may take your normal medications on the day of the examination.