EMG

Before you have surgery at The Bonati Institute, your doctor may recommend that you have an EMG to help him diagnose you. We use EMGs to locate spinal problems through nerve stimulation, especially for patients who are experiencing weakness or numbness. Electromyography, or EMG, is a test that measures electrical activity in muscles.

In intramuscular EMG, small needle electrodes are placed in the muscles your doctor is studying. They are different than the needles used to administer shots and are much more comfortable. In nerve conduction or surface EMG, you will have electrodes taped to your skin or around your fingers and you will typically experience a brief tingling “shock” as your muscle activity is measured.

What Happens During an EMG

During the test, you are asked to contract or relax your muscles by bending or straightening your arm or leg. As you do, an instrument called an oscilloscope records the electrical impulses in your muscles. The recorded signals tell your doctor whether there is damage to your nerves or the muscle itself. The test takes between 30 minutes and one hour to administer, and your muscles might be sore for a few days afterwards.

If your doctor thinks you have a pinched nerve, an EMG is in order. Once you are diagnosed, if you need surgery, consider having it done at The Bonati Institute, where we are experienced in advanced, minimally invasive techniques. Our caring staff will ensure your well being during your visit, and you will be able to go home the same day you have the procedure.