Electromyography

Electromyography is a form of testing that may be employed when a patient is suspected of having a nerve or muscle disorder that is causing symptoms such as muscle weakness, numbness and tingling sensations or muscle pain and cramping. To test the muscles and nerve cells that control them, an electrode is inserted via needle directly into the muscle, where it can detect the electrical activity that is taking place. A nerve conduction study may also be conducted, where electrodes attached to the skin’s surface are able to detect the strength and speed of electrical signals traveling between two or more nerve points. Patients may experience some pain and discomfort during both the needle electrode testing and nerve conduction studies, and may notice some bruising in the area in the days following the procedure.