Electromyography (EMG) is a diagnostic test that measures the electrical activity of muscles.

• Muscles produce tiny electrical signals when they contract.
• EMG records these signals to check if muscles and the nerves controlling them are functioning properly.
• It is often performed alongside Nerve Conduction Velocity (NCV) tests for a complete evaluation.

Doctors recommend EMG when you have symptoms such as:

• Muscle weakness or twitching
• Numbness or tingling in arms or legs
• Unexplained muscle pain
• Frequent cramps

Common conditions diagnosed with EMG:

• Peripheral neuropathy (common in diabetes)
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Herniated discs or pinched nerves
• Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)
• Muscular dystrophy
• Radiculopathy (spinal nerve compression)

📊 Studies suggest that EMG combined with NCV increases diagnostic accuracy by up to 30% compared to using one test alone.

An EMG is a straightforward procedure, usually lasting 30–60 minutes.

Step-by-step procedure:

1. Preparation – The skin over the muscle is cleaned.
2. Needle electrodes – A thin, sterile needle is inserted into the muscle.
3. Recording – The electrode picks up electrical signals while the muscle is at rest and during contraction.
4. Analysis – The machine records wave patterns, which are interpreted by a neurologist.

👉 You may feel mild discomfort or a quick pinching sensation during needle insertion.

• Detects nerve and muscle disorders early.
• Helps doctors differentiate between nerve vs muscle problems.
• Assists in planning effective treatment or surgery.
• Can monitor progression of chronic conditions.