Electromyography

Electromyography (EMG) may be a diagnostic technique that evaluates the health condition of muscles and therefore the nerve cells that control them. These nerve cells are known as motor neurons. The muscles get contract and relax because they transmit electrical signals. An EMG translates these signals into graphs or numbers, helping doctors to form a diagnosis. A doctor will usually order an EMG only when someone is showing symptoms of a muscle or nerve disorder. These symptoms may include tingling, numbness, or unexplained weakness in the limbs. EMG results can help the doctor diagnose nerve disorders,muscle disorders and disorders affecting the connection between nerves and muscles. Some doctors may refer to electromyography as an electro diagnostic exam. Why is electromyography performed? Your doctor may perform an EMG if you’re experiencing symptoms which will indicate a muscle or nerve disorder. Some symptoms which will involve an EMG include: tingling, numbness, muscle weakness, muscle pain or cramping, paralysis, smooth muscle twitching (or tics) The results of an EMG can help your doctor determine the underlying explanation for these symptoms. Possible causes could include: • muscle disorders, such as muscular dystrophy • radiculopathies • peripheral nerve disorders that affect the nerves outside the spinal cord, such as carpal tunnel syndrome • nerve disorders, such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)