Electrodiagnostic Testing

Why should you see a physician certified in electrodiagnostic testing? A certified physician in electrodiagnostic testing undergoes special training in electrodiagnostic procedures. The knowledge and expertise gained from such specialized medical training maximizes the ability of the physician to consider appropriate differential diagnoses in planning and performing the electrodiagnostic exam.

Electrodiagnostic testing can be helpful in problems such as: carpal tunnel syndrome, ulnar palsy, foot drop, polyneuropathy and radiculopathy in the cervical and lumbar regions. Symptoms such as weakness, numbness and tingling can be evaluated with electrodiagnostic testing to identify their cause.

An electrodiagnostic neurological consultation evaluates nerves and muscle functions. During the nerve conduction study small electrical stimuli are used to activate and evaluate the peripheral nerve function. The needle EMG exam uses a narrow-gauge sterile needle electrode to investigate nerve and muscle integrity. A patient may experience mild discomfort during the procedure but most patients tolerate the procedure very well.

PATIENT PREPARATION

Before your EMG and nerve study make sure your skin is clean and dry and do not put on any lotions on your arms or legs as this could interfere with the testing.

Please bring the FILMS of any MRI scans of your spine or brain for the doctor to review. The written report is also helpful to bring with you. Also bring any recent lab work with you.