RCM PAYMENT SYSTEM MANAGEMENT UPDATE & INFO

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EMG FAQs

What is it?

This test is made up of two components, the Electromyogram (EMG) and the Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS). 
 
The EMG measures the electrical activity of muscles at rest and during contraction. Nerves control the muscles in the body by electrical signals (impulses), and these impulses cause the muscles to react in specific ways. Nerve and muscle disorders cause the muscles to react in abnormal ways. During an Electromyography study, a very small pin is inserted in the muscle that helps us evaluate the condition of your muscles. 

The NCS is used to measure the health of your nerves. Mild electrical stimulation is administered to the skin directly overlaying the nerve. The response is measured by a second set of electrodes applied to the surface of the skin. This impulse produces a visual signal on a computer monitor and when analyzed it can provide information about the condition of the nerve. 

Why is it Done?

You may have an EMG if you have signs or symptoms that may indicate a nerve or muscle disorder. Such symptoms may include: 

  • Tingling 
  • Numbness 
  • Muscle weakness 
  • Muscle pain or cramping 
  • Certain types of limb pain 

EMG results are often necessary to help diagnose or rule out a number of conditions such as: 

  • Muscle disorders, such as muscular dystrophy or polymyositis 
  • Diseases affecting the connection between the nerve and the muscle, such as myasthenia gravis 
  • Disorders of nerves outside the spinal cord (peripheral nerves), such as carpal tunnel syndrome or peripheral neuropathies 
  • Disorders that affect the motor neurons in the brain or spinal cord, such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis or polio 
  • Disorders that affect the nerve root, such as a herniated disk in the spine 

Will There Be Needles?

Some of our tests do involve using a very small needle. This needle is placed gently into specific muscle groups, depending on the problem we are investigating. The needle acts like a microphone and picks up the electrical activity in your muscle, which can then be evaluated to see if there are any abnormalities.  

Does it Hurt?

For some people, there may be some discomfort associated with the nerve conduction studies. Most patients describe it as being similar to receiving a small ‘static shock’ from a doorknob or carpet in the winter. The majority of our patients tolerate this part of the test very well. In addition, all of our staff have had these tests many times, so they are able to understand your concerns. 

There can also be some minor discomfort during the needle examination but many of our patients report surprisingly little discomfort from this part of the test. If a patient finds this too unpleasant (which happens only rarely) the test can be stopped at any time. 

Do I Have to Fast?

No, fasting is not necessary for these tests. You may follow your regular meal schedule. You should probably refrain from drinking several cups of coffee within an hour before the test to minimize the need for bathroom breaks. 

Do I Need to Stop Taking My Medication?

In most cases, there should be no need to stop your medication for this test. However, you should check with provider prior to your test date. Please bring a list of all your current medications to your visit. Please inform us in advance if you are taking blood-thinning medications such as coumadin or warfarin. 

What Should I Wear?

It is best to wear loose clothing that is easy to remove. Do not wear long underwear, pantyhose, etc.  You may bring a pair of loose-fitting shorts and t-shirt if you wish. Please remove all jewelry prior to your appointment, except for MedicAlert bracelets.

How Long Will It Take?

Your test may take up two hours to complete, depending on the question asked by your referring doctor, and what testing is showing. 

When Will I Find the Test Results?

Results will be completed within 72 hours following your appointment in Overland Park, KS and your results will be sent to your referring physician or those indicated on your medical release form. 

It is important to remember that the EMG test may not provide a diagnosis of your problem. The EMG test is like one piece of a jigsaw puzzle; your referring physician will evaluate the results of your EMG test along with the results of any other investigations which may be necessary to arrive at a diagnosis. 

Can I Drive Afterwards?

You will be able to drive after your test or do anything else that you would normally do. 

Are There Any Risks?

There are a few minor risks to these tests. It is important that we know if you are on blood thinning medications (anticoagulants). The electrical stimulation is of no significant risk for most patients. However, it is important that you tell us if you have an implanted cardiac pacemaker, any metal implants or fragments within your body, or epilepsy, as we may have to use different test procedures.   
 
If needle studies are required, sterilized disposable electrodes are used and are discarded immediately afterwards. You will never be tested with a needle that has been used on someone else. 

What Are the Side Effects?

The electrical nerve conduction tests have no lasting side effects. Some patients may experience a small amount of local irritation at the site of needle insertion. You will be able to drive and return to work following the tests. Our staff make every effort to ensure your comfort and safety.