EMG and Nerve Conduction Studies
OrthoVirginia’s EMG (electromyography) and nerve conduction studies aid in the identification, evaluation and treatment of nerve compression, nerve root injury and other conditions associated with the muscles and nerves. These conditions can include carpal tunnel syndrome, radiculopathy, peripheral neuropathy, myasthenia gravis, muscular dystrophy and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.
EMG, which is used to detect abnormal muscle electrical activity, and nerve conduction studies, which are used to test how well and how fast nerves can send electrical signals, are often performed together during a single visit.
Preparation
In preparation for your EMG or nerve conduction study, please bathe or shower to remove all oil from your skin. Do not use body lotion or powder on the day of the test.
Procedure
An EMG is performed by inserting small pins or needles into certain muscles, which the patient is then asked to contract. The needles used for an EMG are different from the familiar hypodermic needles used for medication injections, in that they are small and solid rather than hollow. Furthermore, because no medication is injected during an EMG, there is much less discomfort than there usually is with “shots.”
Nerve conduction studies are performed by taping or placing small electrodes to various spots on the skin or fingers. Patients often experience a mild and brief tingling sensation.
After the Procedure
Following your EMG or nerve conduction study, your OrthoVirginia physician will first explain the results to you and then send a copy of the results to your personal physician, to whom you will be referred for subsequent evaluation and/or treatment.
EMG & Nerve Conduction Studies Locations
All EMG and nerve conduction studies are performed by Charles W. Vokac, M.D., at one of the following OrthoVirginia locations:
