Nerve & Muscle Tests (EMG)

EMG - Electromyography

An EMG is a test performed by a specially-trained neurologist, to give information about the health and function of the nerves and muscles in the arms and legs. The EMG is a valuable tool to diagnose the location and type of nerve or muscle disease, in order to establish an appropriate treatment.

A doctor would order this test for patients who have symptoms or conditions such as:

• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Peripheral neuropathy
• Radiculopathy (pinched nerve roots)
• Muscle disease

What you should know

Do not use lotions or creams on your arms or legs on the day of the test. Keep hands and feet warm for the test (wear gloves in the winter).

This test will usually last 45 minutes. However, some tests are shorter and in some cases may take up to one hour.

Please wear comfortable clothing that will give easy access to your arms and legs. In some cases we may ask you to change into a hospital gown.

Our neurologist will ask for a brief description of your problem and why your physician asked for the investigation. The strength, sensation and reflexes in arms and legs will be examined before the testing procedure. The history and examination will take longer if your physician has requested a neurological consultation in addition to the test.

There are two parts to an EMG, and we may perform one or both.

1. Nerve Conduction Study: We will tape small surface electrodes to your hand, arm, foot or leg. We will then stimulate the nerves of your arm or leg with small electric impulses. This will feel like a tingle and the muscles may jump slightly. The physician will warn you of this.
2. EMG: We will insert very fine disposable needles just under the skin into the muscles of interest. We will ask you to relax and then contract the muscle beneath the needle. We make recordings of the nerve and muscle activity in that area.

An EMG has no side effects, but in rare cases, a small bruise may develop at the site of needle electrode examination.

Contact us

Markham Site:  (905) 472-7020

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