What Are They?

EMG  and the Nerve Conduction Study are tests used to detect nerve and  muscle problems. An EMG measures the electrical activity of muscles, and the Nerve Conduction Study measures the speed and intensity of electrical signals that travel along nerves.

These two tests provide useful information about the health of your muscles and nerves.  They  can help detect the cause of problems such as weakness, numbness,  spasms, or pain. EMG and Nerve Conduction Study are able to determine  if the problem involves the spinal nerve roots, peripheral nerves and muscles.

What’s Going to Happen?

During a Nerve Conduction Study, you will lie in a comfortable and relaxed  position (depending on what area of your body is being tested). Certain  areas of your skin will be cleaned and a gel will be applied. Three  small, flat electrodes will be taped to your skin. Stimulating electrodes are held against your skin. You will feel a shocking  sensation, each time the nerve is stimulated.

During  an EMG, you will lie in a comfortable and relaxed position. Certain  areas of your skin may be cleaned. A small, thin needle electrode is  gently inserted into the muscle, and you may feel a dull ache or  pressure. Other electrodes are attached to your skin.

How Long Will It Take?

Allow approximately 60 minutes for the 2-part test:

• Part 1 – Nerve Conduction Testing,  30 minutes
• Part 2 – EMG Testing,  30 minutes

You  may feel tenderness or soreness in the tested muscles for a few hours  after your EMG. To relieve discomfort, apply ice wrapped in a cloth or  a cold pack or take an over-the-counter pain medicine such as  acetaminophen or ibuprofen.

Test Preparation

• You may bathe or shower on the day of your test. Please do not use bath oils, lotions or creams.
• Eat meals according to your usual schedule.
• Tell  the physician or technician about medications you are taking  (especially Coumadin). Tell him or her if you bruise easily, have  hemophilia, diabetes, a pacemaker, or a skin infection.
• If you are taking Coumadin, you MUST have blood work (INR levels and protime) drawn 2-3 days prior to testing. Please bring in your lab work results with you.
• Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing. Please do not wear bracelets or watches.
• Allow plenty of time to avoid feeling rushed (arrive 15 minutes prior to your appointment in order to fill out information and answer questions). Please complete any forms you have received from Neurological Associates, Inc.  and bring them in with you.
• Please  do not bring your children to your test appointment due to the size of  our testing room and equipment, we ask that family members remain in  the waiting room.