Electromyography (EMG) is a diagnostic test used to measure how well your muscles and nerves are functioning together. By recording the electrical activity of muscle tissue, EMG helps neurologists identify nerve or muscle disorders that may cause weakness, numbness, pain, or other symptoms. It’s often performed alongside a nerve conduction study (NCS) to provide a full picture of how your peripheral nerves are communicating with your muscles.
EMG testing is used to diagnose a wide range of neuromuscular conditions, including neuropathy, carpal tunnel syndrome, radiculopathy (pinched nerves), myasthenia gravis, and ALS. While some mild discomfort can occur during the test, especially during the needle portion, most patients find it tolerable and complete the procedure without difficulty.
An EMG measures the electrical signals that occur when your muscles contract and rest. During the test, small, thin needles are inserted into specific muscles to record electrical activity. You may also have electrodes placed on your skin to evaluate how your nerves respond to mild electrical stimulation, a companion test called a nerve conduction study (NCS). Together, these provide valuable insight into whether a muscle or nerve disorder is present.
Our neurology specialists use EMG testing to evaluate symptoms such as muscle weakness, tingling, burning, or unexplained pain. After your EMG, we’ll review your results in detail and, if needed, recommend next steps such as physical therapy, medication, or referral to one of our specialty treatment programs. Our goal is to help you better understand your symptoms and take the next step toward relief.
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This test determines whether weakness or sensory loss you are experiencing is related to nerve or muscle disease. Techniques include nerve conduction studies in which electrodes are placed on the skin to stimulate nerves, as well as needle electromyography, which records and analyzes electrical activity in muscle.
Routine EEG, or electroencephalography, records brain waves using electrodes placed at defined locations on the scalp using conductive paste or glue. You will lie still on a bed and may be asked to perform some simple tasks. Flashing lights and hyperventilation may be used during the test to provide additional information. In most cases, the brain waves during both waking and sleep are recorded. The test typically takes one to two hours.
Video EEG records actual events or seizures, which can assist with diagnosis and surgical evaluation. As with routine EEG, electrodes are glued onto the scalp, although more electrodes are typically used. During the test, antiepileptic medications are often reduced or stopped to improve the chances of recording seizures. A typical recording lasts three to five days, although it may be shorter or longer depending on how long it takes to obtain the necessary data.
EMG (electromyography) assesses nerve and muscle function to diagnose conditions like neuropathy or carpal tunnel.
You don’t need to fast or make major changes before your EMG, but:
~30-60 minutes
You’ll be asked to relax while a neurologist inserts very thin needles into selected muscles. These needles record the electrical activity of your muscles during rest and movement. You may also have surface electrodes placed on your skin for the nerve conduction portion of the test. The entire process typically takes 30 to 60 minutes.
You may feel a brief sting or muscle twitch during the test, especially when the needle electrodes are inserted. Discomfort is usually mild and short-lived. Most patients complete the test without any issues.
EMG testing can detect disorders that affect:
Most EMG and NCS studies take about 30 to 60 minutes, depending on how many muscles and nerves are tested. You can resume normal activities immediately afterward.
