EMG (Nerve Conduction Testing)

The consultation begins with the physician completing a history and physical examination.
Following this, the nerve test begins with you comfortably laying down on the exam bed.
Stickers (electrodes) are placed on the skin of your arms or legs to record test information.
Pen marks are then made to areas where the nerve will be stimulated by a probe.
The probe is then placed on these markings and a small stimulation is given to obtain a recording.
The stimulation will feel like a momentary buzz or tingle when a button is pressed.
The stimulation is started at small increments so the patient can get used to the feeling, and then slowly increased to obtain an adequate recording. Generally it is very tolerable.
You may sometimes feel as if your muscles are jumping. This is normal.
The information we obtain on our computer tells us if there is an issue with the nerve and/or muscle.
On occasion, a secondary part of the test may be required, where a very fine needle is used to look for further muscle/nerve issues – but this is only required if deemed necessary by the physician.