Electromyography (EMG) is a diagnostic procedure to assess the health of muscles and the nerves that control them. Our physicians are specialists in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (Physiatry), with additional training in diseases of the peripheral nervous system recognized by the Canadian Society of Clinical Neurophysiology. We perform Physiatry consultations in addition to electrodiagnostic tests with interpretation. Referrals can be made by your Family Doctor, Nurse Practitioner or a specialist.
FAQ & How to Prepare
1. Who does the testing?
A trained technologist under the physician's supervision will complete the nerve conduction studies. The physician will complete all needle EMG testing. We have physicians in training who may assist under the supervision of our staff.
2. Why am I being sent for this test?
You are being sent to the EMG lab because you have numbness, tingling, pain, weakness, or other neuromusculoskeletal symptoms. Your referring physician has requested a consultation and tests to investigate your symptoms. The EMG doctor may use nerve conduction studies (NCS) and/or needle EMG to diagnose your symptoms. The doctor will examine you to decide if both tests are necessary.
3. What is involved in NCS and EMG
NCS shows how the body's electrical signals are travelling in a nerve. This is done by applying small surface electrodes on your skin and providing a non-harmful electrical stimulus at specific areas to examine your nerve activity. These shocks cause a quick, mild, tingling feeling. The technologist may test several nerves during the study.
For EMG (needle studies), a small needle is put in several muscles. The muscle activity is recorded in the form of sound and waveforms. A new needle is used for each patient and disposed after the test. There may be a small amount of soreness where the needle was inserted. The doctor tests only the muscles necessary for diagnosis. The doctor will look at and listen to the electrical signals that travel from the needle to the EMG machine. The doctor then uses his/her medical knowledge to explain the results.
4. What is the duration of this appointment?
The tests usually take 1.5 -2 hours. There is no restriction in activities being performed prior to the test - you may go about your regular activities, like eating, driving, and exercising and you may resume your normal activities after the tests are complete. There are no lasting side effects to the tests.
5. How to prepare for the test?
Tell the EMG doctor if you are taking aspirin, blood thinners, have a pacemaker, or have a bleeding disorder. On the day of your test, please ensure your skin is free of oil or moisturizing creams. Please bring a list of all the medications you take.
6. When will you know the test results?
The EMG doctor will discuss the test results with you at this appointment. The results will also be faxed to your referring doctor.
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