Electromyography is a technique to evaluate and record the signal of muscular activities. This technique detects potential acts of muscular cells when they do contraction and relaxation by using electrodes that are applied to the muscular tissue. EMG is applied when a patient suffers muscular weakening. An EMG is usually ordered to determine the localization and severity of neurogenic disorders and to differentiate them from myogenic disorders. This examination can help identify between muscular problems or nerve disturbances.

Elektromyography Procedure?

Procedures may vary depending on patient’s condition and doctor’s practices. The EMG is performed by a neurologist. Patient will be asked to remove any clothing, jewelry, hairpins, eyeglasses, hearing aids, or other metal objects that may interfere with the procedure. Patient will be given a gown to wear and will be asked to sit or lie down for the test. During the test, your doctor will insert one or more small needles (also called electrodes) through your skin into your muscle. The electrical activity picked up by the electrodes is then displayed on a monitor in the form of waves. An audio-amplifier is used so the activity can be heard. You may experience slight pain with the insertion of the electrode, but it is usually painless. After all of the electrodes have been inserted, you may be asked to contract your muscle, for example, by lifting or bending your leg.

How Do You Prepare For Elektromyography Test?

You will be asked to sign a consent form that gives patient’s permission to do the test. Doctors do recommend that on the morning of a test you should bathe or shower, but don’t put on any lotions or moisturizers. It’s better to avoid caffeine and sugary beverages for 2 or 3 hours before a test. Tell your doctor about medications you take before a test. There may be certain medicines you should avoid taking until after the test. Also, tell your doctor if you have a pacemaker before getting EMG scheduled.