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What to Expect: 'EMGs' as they are classically called, are not as bad as you may have heard. Most people describe them as being mildly annoying, with only a rare percent having to stop the test due to excessive discomfort. Most tests are separated into the electrical Nerve Conduction Study (NCS) portion and the needle Electromyography (EMG) portion. Those who find the test disagreeable will usually state that the needle part of the test is the more uncomfortable, as will be explained. The NCS uses small electric shocks; similar to feeling static electricity, to stimulate nerves in the body. Electrodes monitor the speed and height of the response to determine if there is normal or abnormal function. The EMG portion requires that a small needle; between 26 and 28G, is placed into the muscle to listen for abnormal signals. Each patient needs different nerves and muscles studied based upon his/ her symptoms and the referring practitioner's questions that need to be answered. Pre-procedure: Before the procedure, make certain that the patient has cleaned the area thouroughly, and does not apply lotions to the skin on either the arms or legs, as sometimes, the examiner may need to test a nerve or muscle outside of the area requested for comparison. If the patient has severe anxiety, then medication may be prescribed at the discretion of the patient's primary physician, but the patient MUST BE AWAKE AND ABLE TO FOLLOW INSTRUCTIONS THROUGHOUT THE DURATION OF THE TEST. Patients will be brought into a quiet room, where the physician will take a brief history, perform a brief physical exam, and will then proceed with the test. Post-procedure: Most patients will state that the needle sites remain mildly sore for 24-72 hours, but only rare instances of problems have ever occurred in conjuction with needle EMG study in qualified hands. Anti-inflammatory medication or acetominophen usually controls the minor discomfort, and should be taken at the discretion of the patient and his/ her primary physician. Most individuals can return to all of their normal activities immediately after the test. |
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