Electromyography

Electromyography is an important diagnostic tool for the following conditions:

Spinal Nerve Impingements
causing arm pain, leg pain,
weakness and numbness
in upper and lower extremities

Peripheral nerve
compression from trauma

Musculoskeletal and
neuromuscular disease

Carpal Tunnel

Tarsal Tunnel

Peripheral neuropathy from
diabetes, thyroid conditions
and other causes

Fibromyalgia, shoulder and
elbow pain and foot pain

How Electromyography Works

Electomyographies (EMGs) and Nerve Conduction Studies (NCSs) stimulate muscle contractions that reveal which nerves are pinched. This helps to confirm the diagnosis and determine the seriousness of the condition. By isolating a specific area of nerve and muscle disorder, the physician can formulate the most effective treatment plan.

The first part of the process is the NCS. Dr. Tony Ton-That stimulates certain nerves by applying a brief electric stimulus to one portion of the nerve. The nerve stimulation causes a “tingling-like” sensation. Small electrodes are applied to the skin and recordings are made. The purpose of a nerve conduction study is to see if the nerves are conducting normally, at a slower speed, or not conducting at all.

The second part of electrodiagnosis is the needle EMG. Dr. Ton-That analyzes the motor activities in the muscle by inserting a fine needle into the selected group of muscles. During this testing he observes on his monitor the activity of the muscles at rest and during voluntary movement.




 

• Preparation:
• The time required to do the study varies, but generally takes between 30 and 60 minutes. There are no restrictions relative to the activities before or after testing, and there are no permanent after effects. Patients should not apply any lotion, cream or oily substance to the skin prior to testing.

• Contact Information:
• (717) 569-5331

• QUICK LINKS:
• • Physiatrists
• • Tony T. Ton-That, MD
• • Meet Dr. Tony Ton-That