EMG Test Instructions
Electromyography (EMGs) test your muscles and nerves to see if they are working properly.
TEST DURATION: The average test takes 60 minutes to complete.
HOW TO PREPARE
- Please inform your referring physician’s office as well as our laboratory several days prior to your test date if you are taking aspirin, blood thinners (such as Coumadin ®), have a pacemaker, or have hemophilia.
- Take a bath or shower to remove oils from your skin.
- Do not use body lotion or oils on the day of the test.
- In cold weather, wear gloves, pants, and closed toe shoes to keep your hands and feet warm before the test.
THE TEST
An EMG test usually consists of two parts:
- NERVE CONDUCTION STUDY (NCS): The nerve conduction study portion of the EMG test shows how the body’s electrical signals are traveling in the nerves. This is done by applying small electrical shocks to one point on the nerve and recording from another. These shocks cause a quick, mild tingling feeling, but go away quickly. The doctor or technologist may have to test several nerves.
- NEEDLE EMG (Electromyography): For the needle emg portion of the EMG test a small, thin needle is inserted into the muscle. The electrical activity of the muscle is then recorded. You may be asked to contract the muscle to see how the contraction changes the activity. There may be a small amount of pain when the needed is inserted. The doctor will only examine the muscles necessary to diagnose your problem. A new needle is used for each patient, and it is discarded after the test.
AFTER THE TEST
There are no specific discharge instructions for an EMG test. You may resume your normal activities.
