Is Electrodiagnostic Testing Helpful?

The human body is likened to an electrical generator. Nerves and muscles are responsible for delivering electrical signals to and from your brain. A damaged nerve or muscle can slow or prevent the transmission of electrical signals. A measurement of the electrical activity in your nerves and muscles can detect back, neck, or limb pain, weakness, or numbness. An electrodiagnostic test measures how quickly and strongly electrical impulses travel through nerves and muscles. Electrodiagnostic is an important tool for pain management in Richardson , Texas. A damaged nerve or muscle will transmit a weaker and slower electrical signal.

Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS)

It is common to perform NCS as well as an EMG to determine whether a nerve is functioning normally or not. During the test, the doctor will apply wires (electrodes) along the nerve pathway to the skin. An electric current is then applied to the nerve by the doctor. Electrodes placed along the nerve pathway capture the signal as it travels along the pathway and measure its speed. Electrical signals can travel as fast as 120 miles per hour in healthy nerves. A damaged nerve, however, will result in a slower and weaker signal. A doctor can determine the specific location of the problem by stimulating the nerve at various locations. In addition, nerve conduction studies are useful in monitoring a nerve's recovery following an injury.

Electromyography (EMG)

The EMG records and analyzes the electrical activity of muscles. Consequently the purpose of this test is to learn more about the functioning of the nerves connecting the spinal cord to the muscles. When the muscle is at rest, it is electrically silent. An EMG consists of placing small, thin needles in selected muscles to record electrical activity. You may experience pain and discomfort during the needle insertion. The doctor will ask you to relax the muscle and tense it slightly. The doctor will listen and watch a TV-like screen that broadcasts electrical signals. Additionally, you may also hear the sound when moving the muscle. Electrodiagnostics may be used to evaluate radiculopathies, carpal tunnel syndrome, myopathies and peripheral neuropathies, just to name a few.

Most Common EMG Diagnosis:

• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Radiculopathies (“pinched nerves”)
• Ulnar neuropathy
• Peripheral Neuropathy
• Muscle diseases
• Motor neuron disease
• Myasthenia gravis

Preparing for an EMG

• Eat and drink normally.
• Do not apply lotions or body creams as they can interfere.
• You may want to wear shorts and a short sleeve shirt, or you will need to change into a gown.
• Notify the technician and physician if you are taking blood thinners. If you are taking pyridostigmine (Mestinon), it should be held for 12 hours prior to testing with your physician's consent.
• Studies take 40 minutes to 1 ½ hours depending on the complexity.

Following testing, you can resume your normal daily activities.

What To Expect On Your Emg Day

Electrodiagnostic testing is an important tool for pain management in Hillsboro . On the day of your EMG, avoid lotions or oils. During testing, it is advisable to layer your clothing to facilitate removal. We will show you to the testing room when you arrive at the clinic. Prior to the procedure, please remove any jewelry or metal objects that may interfere with the procedure or results. If your doctor tests your muscles, they may ask you to sit or lay down. There will be a sterile needle inserted into your muscle and an electrode nearby. As a result of this electrode, your doctor will be able to monitor your movements and determine if there is an underlying condition. This is based on the electrical signal. The needle may cause some slight discomfort during insertion, and it may be necessary to insert the needle multiple times. Please inform your physician if the procedure becomes painful. When the doctor relaxes and contracts the muscles, he examines them. An EMG procedure can take 10 to 90 minutes, depending on the muscle type.

Based On Your Testing

Your referring physician will let you know when you can expect your results once he or she receives the electrodiagnostic test results. Following your procedure, you may resume any normal activities. Occasionally, you may experience soreness and tenderness following an electromyography (EMG). When it comes to pain management in Fort Worth pain management in Fort Worth, electrodiagnostic testing is a reliable tool that can provide valuable insight into the underlying causes of pain.

How Long Does It take?

In a sterile, office-based environment, electrodiagnostics can be safely performed. Depending on the symptoms and the number of nerves and muscles to be tested, the tests can last anywhere from 15 minutes to two hours. Patients who wear lotion on the day of the test will have difficulty collecting data.

What Are The Expected Results?

In most cases, patients resume work or normal activities after completing a study. This diagnostic tool provides information that can help determine the most effective treatment strategy for chronic premier pain caused by nerve and muscle damage.

Premier Pain Centers

The Premier Pain Centers in the United States provides high-quality medical treatment for patients suffering from severe muscle pain. Providing comfort and peace to its members is an essential component of the organization's mission.

We are a one-stop medical clinic dedicated to providing patients with highly qualified, experienced physicians who are capable of treating their pain. Our comprehensive patient care program includes interventional pain management , physical therapy, and therapy management. For conditions such as inner knee pain caused by running, Dr Ali Pain Management offers a comprehensive range of evidence-based treatment options.

Do not hesitate to contact us if you are interested in schedule an appointment .