What is EMG & Electromyography?
An EMG (electromyography) test measures the electrical activity produced by muscles at rest and during contraction. It is typically performed alongside a nerve conduction study (NCS), which measures how quickly and effectively electrical signals travel along a nerve. Together, these tests provide a complete picture of neuromuscular function.
EMG and nerve conduction studies are performed by Dr. Lichtblau, a board-certified physiatrist with extensive training in electrodiagnostic medicine. The results guide both diagnosis and the development of an individualized treatment plan.
What Conditions Does EMG Diagnose?
- Neuropathic pain — identifying nerve damage causing burning, tingling, or shooting pain
- Carpal tunnel syndrome — median nerve compression at the wrist
- Radiculopathy — nerve root compression from disc herniation or spinal stenosis
- Peripheral neuropathy — diffuse nerve damage from diabetes, alcohol, or other causes
- Plexopathies — brachial or lumbar plexus nerve injuries
- Myopathies — primary muscle diseases causing weakness
- Neuromuscular junction disorders — such as myasthenia gravis
- ALS and other motor neuron diseases
What to Expect During EMG Testing
An EMG study consists of two parts. The nerve conduction study (NCS) comes first: small electrodes are placed on the skin over the nerve being tested, and mild electrical impulses measure conduction velocity and amplitude. This portion may produce brief, minor discomfort.
The second part, needle EMG, involves inserting a very fine needle electrode into specific muscles to record their electrical activity at rest and with contraction. Most patients find the procedure manageable. The entire study typically takes 30–60 minutes depending on the clinical question.
No special preparation is required, though you should avoid skin lotion on the day of testing and tell Dr. Lichtblau about any blood thinners or pacemaker devices you use.
How EMG Results Guide Your Treatment
The results of your EMG and nerve conduction study are interpreted by Dr. Lichtblau in the context of your symptoms, physical exam, and imaging findings. This allows for precise localization of nerve injury — distinguishing, for example, a C6 radiculopathy from carpal tunnel syndrome, or a peripheral neuropathy from a motor neuron disease — each of which requires a fundamentally different treatment approach. Accurate diagnosis means more effective, targeted care.
