tingling or frequent feeling of 'pins and needles'.Your doctor may order an EMG test if you experience any of the following symptoms:
Why does my doctor want me to have an EMG test? ALS (formerly known as Lou Gehrig’s disease).(Find a doctor at HSS who performs EMG testing.) What is an EMG test used to diagnose?Ĭonditions that EMG testing helps diagnose include:
In most cases, your doctor will perform both elements, but in some situations, only one or the other may be done. Each needle has a microscopic electrode that picks up both the normal and abnormal electrical signals given off by a muscle. An EMG nerve test can provide your doctor with specific information about the extent of nerve and/or muscle injury and can also determine the exact location of injury and give some indication whether the damage is reversible. It is commonly performed by a physiatrist or neurologist with special training for this procedure.
