EMG Diagnostics
The diagnostic benefits of EMG.
As technology continues to advance, so too does modern medicine.
In particular, advancements in the field of electrodiagnostic medicine have greatly improved physicians’ ability to diagnose a whole host of conditions that can affect the peripheral nervous system. When it comes to more accurately diagnosing neuromuscular disorders, electromyography (EMG) is an essential tool.
For accurate EMG results, the EMG should be performed by a physician with specialized training, not a technician. With several physicians board-certified in electrodiagnostic medicine, Rehabilitation Physicians is uniquely qualified to provide EMG and nerve conduction studies.
The ABC’s of EMG and NCS.
EMG is a test of a muscle’s electrical activity. It is recommended if you are experiencing pain, numbness or weakness. With EMG testing, you will sit or lie down, depending on which muscle is being tested. An extremely thin electrode will be gently placed into the muscle. This electrode records the muscle’s electrical activity during relaxation and during contractions with gradually increased force. EMG is usually performed along with nerve conduction studies to obtain complete information and make an accurate diagnosis.
Nerve conduction studies (NCS) can supplement the EMG test and evaluate nerve disease. With this test, the nerve being tested is stimulated with a mild electrical impulse while the electrodes record the speed of the impulse as it travels from point A to point B. Your doctor will repeat this process for each nerve being tested. As you might guess, a normally functioning nerve will transmit a faster and stronger signal than a damaged or diseased nerve.
Abnormalities of nerve or muscle as detected by EMG and NCS can be caused by many conditions, including many spinal problems, trauma, compression, inflammation, arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome, diabetic neuropathy, multiple sclerosis, chemical sensitivity and herniated discs.
Rehabilitation Physicians brings you decades of clinical experience and performs thousands of electrodiagnostic studies each year. They are the trusted choice of many area physicians for their patients who need highly specialized physiatry care. We are located in Novi, and Livonia, Michigan.
For complete details on our diagnostic EMG/NCS services or to schedule an appointment, call Rehabilitation Physicians at 248-893-3200.