Debunking the Top 3 Myths of EMG/Nerve Conduction Studies

Kevin Klos, M.D.

Debunking the Top 3 Myths of EMG/Nerve Conduction Studies

Myth #1:EMG Testing is Painful

Myth #1 EMG Testing is painful

“There was minimal discomfort, brief aching sensations only lasting a few seconds…the test was so much better than what I had anticipated.”

Part 1: Nerve Conduction Study

What is an EMG test?

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Part 2: Electromyogram

EMG recordings from various muscles of the arm and back

EMG testing only assesses the Peripheral Nervous System

-Powerful diagnostic tool to assess the function of peripheral nerves and muscles that may not be obtainable by other diagnostic testing

-Outpatient procedure

-Minimal discomfort if performed with proper technique by trained Electromyographer

-No sedation required

Nerve Conduction Studies/ EMG

Myth #2: All EMG tests are the same no matter where the test is performed

-EMG results extremely dependent upon the skill and experience of the examiner

- Technical factors can produce erroneous results

-The muscles and nerves selected for testing is as important as the competency of the examiner

Myth #2: All EMG tests are the same

*EMGs should only be performed by properly trained physicians in the specialty of Neurology or PM&R

Myth #3:EMGs do not differentiate an acute problem from an old or chronic nerve problem

-EMG testing is normal in the first 2 weeks after a nerve injury

-EMG testing differentiates between a recent injury and an old and chronic injury

Myth #3: EMGs do not differentiate old from the new

-Comparing multiple EMGs allows for differentiating a progressive versus fixed deficit

-EMG testing differentiates an active problem from an old and inactive problem

Myth #3: EMGs do not differentiate old from the new

*EMG testing can be performed with minimal discomfort

*EMG testing must be performed by properly trained technicians and physicians. The test is an extension of the neurological exam

Conclusions:

*EMG testing will diagnose peripheral nerve problems including Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Ulnar nerve lesions, Spinal nerve root problems (Radiculopathy), Muscle disease, Peripheral Neuropathies (such as Diabetic neuropathy) and others

Conclusions:

*EMG will differentiate an old injury from a new injury, as well as an active and ongoing problem from an old, fixed injury

*EMG testing determine if a patient’s symptoms and complaints have an objective peripheral nerve abnormality explanation

Conclusions:

Thank you!