Assessing muscle activity and the nerves that control it.
Electromyography records electrical activity in selected muscles. A fine needle electrode is inserted into the muscle to record activity at rest and during movement. The findings may assist in identifying muscle dysfunction, motor-nerve dysfunction or altered communication between nerves and muscles. It can also assist in differentiating between distal and proximal nerve lesions.
A focused test of muscle function.
Electromyography records electrical activity in selected muscles. A fine needle electrode is inserted into the muscle to record activity at rest and during movement. The findings may assist in identifying muscle dysfunction, motor-nerve dysfunction or altered communication between nerves and muscles. It can also assist in differentiating between distal and proximal nerve lesions.
EMG is often performed together with a nerve conduction study.
Symptoms and concerns an EMG may help investigate.
The reason for EMG depends on the patient’s symptoms, the body area involved and the referring healthcare professional’s clinical question.
A targeted investigation of selected muscles.
The skin is cleaned
The skin is cleaned.
A thin sterile needle electrode is inserted
A thin sterile needle electrode is inserted into selected muscles.
Electrical activity is recorded
Electrical activity is recorded while the muscle is relaxed.
The muscle is assessed at rest
The patient may be asked to contract or move the muscle.
The patient may contract or move the muscle
The electrode is removed and additional muscles may be assessed.
The needle may cause brief discomfort. Mild tenderness or bruising may occasionally occur afterwards.
Simple preparation helps the appointment run smoothly.
- Wear loose, comfortable clothing.
- Do not apply body lotion, cream or oil to the area being tested.
- Supply a list of medication to your neurophysiologist.
- Tell your neurophysiologist if you use blood-thinning medication.
- Inform your neurophysiologist if you have a bleeding disorder.
- Mention any pacemaker or implanted electrical device.
- Do not stop medication unless instructed by your healthcare professional.
Muscle and Nerve Symptom Check
These symptoms may have many different causes. This checklist cannot identify a muscle or nerve disorder and does not replace a clinical examination.
Ready to arrange your appointment?
Contact the practice directly or complete the secure appointment form on the Contact page. A referral will be required from your private healthcare physician or a referring medical specialist.
Contact the practice or complete our appointment form.
Visit the Contact page to send a general enquiry, call or email the practice, or complete the secure appointment form online.
This website does not provide a diagnosis and is not monitored as an emergency service.