Electromyography (EMG) Testing in Illinois
Should I have an EMG test?
- numbness, tingling, feeling of “pins and needles”
- acute or chronic neck or back pain
- continuous pain
- loss of sensation
- burning pain
- weakness or atrophy
- difficulty with fine motor movements
- sharp, shooting, or radiating pain
- aching pain
- muscle spasms
- loss of muscle control
- hot/cold sensation
- gait or balance issues
What will the test feel like?
Can you walk me through what the test will be like?
The second part of the test will be performed by a neurologist. This portion of the test is similar to the other portion; however a small needle is used by the neurologist. This part of the test provides important information about the muscles and how the muscle is communicating with your nerves. It will also help differentiate between a muscle disorder and a nerve disorder.
There is no risk or damage done to the nerves or body by this investigation. The human body actually produces its own natural electrical currents to deliver messages from the brain to the other parts of the body. These naturally occurring electric currents in your nerves can be affected by injury, inflammation, disease, and/or other conditions. You can continue your medications as usual, and you will be able to resume normal activities directly after testing.
About your EMG Study
Preparing for your EMG study…
- Before your scheduled test date, please inform the staff if you are taking any blood thinners, such as Coumadin, or if you have a pacemaker or defibrillator
- The study will take 30 minutes to an hour to complete, depending on the specific studies that will be done
- Please do not apply lotions or oils to your skin on your test date
- Wear loose fitting, dark colored clothing
On your test date…
- Please check in with the office staff to let them know you are there for your EMG study
- Our highly trained neurodiagnostic technician and board certified physician will be performing the study
- The test is mildly uncomfortable. A small electric shock is applied to the nerves that are being tested
- Once your study is completed, you can resume any of your normal activities
- The neurologist will write a formal report
- Your doctor will receive the report within 3-4 days from your test date
- Please schedule a follow up appointment with your doctor to review the results
Request an Appointment