When a patient is experiencing abnormal muscle activity like pain, numbness or weakness whether it be in their leg or arm an Electromyogram (EMG) measures the activity of your muscles to find out which is due to nerve disorders. Both of our medical offices in Westland and Livonia Michigan provide EMG testing to patients by our reputable doctors.
An EMG tests has two parts; Nerve Conduction Study and Electromyography. The EMG test detects the abnormal electrical activity of the muscle that occurs in the condition or disease. It tells the doctors what muscle condition begins in the muscle caused by nerve disorders and the level of nerve irritation and injury. The EMG test can show if the muscle weakness is due to a nerve disorder, pain from straining the muscle or from lack of movement.
EMG Testing is performed to find diseases that damage muscle tissue, damage nerves and junctions between the muscle and nerve. Some problems that result from these damages may be;
- Herniated Disc
- Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)
- Myasthenia Gravis (MG)
The Intramuscluar EMG Test Procedure
The Nerve Study part of a EMG uses electrodes taped to the skin with surface electrodes. The electrodes are placed over the muscles being tested. Small electrical stimulation is applied to the nerves causing a mild tingling sensation. Nerve and muscle responses are recorded by sophisticated digital equipment
The Electromyography part of the EMG test uses a disposable electrode needle that is inserted into the designated muscle chosen by the physician. The tip of the electrode records muscle activity at rest and at voluntary contractions.
FAQs about EMG Testing
- No preparation is needed for adults
- psychological preparation may be needed for children
- Patients are asked not to use lotion on their body 24 hr before the test
- You will experience some discomfort when the needle electrodes are inserted
- The muscle may feel sore for a few days post test
- Tests can last 30 to 60 minutes
- Test have no side effects allowing patients to resume their normal activity following
EMG testing can be done in a hospital or a medical clinic that offers this type of diagnostic testing. Millennium Medical Group West provides EMG testings at the Westland clinic and serves communities one of the best local medical clinics. Contact our office close to you for more information on EMG Testing and schedule an appointment with our doctors today.