
The test also provides your physician with information about how well your nerves and muscles are functioning in general. EMG testing can help the University Pain Medicine Center team confirm or rule out conditions like: Your healthcare provider will study the results of your exam and will talk to you about them at a followup visit.Įlectromyography (EMG) is a diagnostic procedure to identify issues that affect your muscle health and nerve function. Your muscles may feel tender for a few days. The needle may be put in several different muscles during your test. The needle measures how much electricity your muscle generates. You relax the muscle, and then you contract it.

For the needle electromyogram, a special needle is placed into one of your muscles.

A computer measures how quickly the signals pass from one electrode to another. Very low levels of electricity are sent through these electrodes. For the nerve conduction study, some small, disc-shaped electrodes are taped on skin. Before the test, you may be given a hospital gown to wear.
