Electrodiagnostic Medicine – (EMG) or Nerve Testing

Electrodiagnostic medicine allows orthopedic specialists to diagnose, evaluate and treat nerve and muscle conditions and injuries using specialized technology and tools.

What Is Electrodiagnostic Medicine?

Electrodiagnostic medicine is a medical specialty that helps diagnose and evaluate problems with the muscular system, nerves and related systems in our bodies. It involves special tests that measure electrical activity, which can help identify problems such as nerve injuries, muscle diseases and conditions that affect how your nerves and muscles communicate with the rest of the body.

Electrodiagnosis at Summit Orthopedics can be performed with two main types of specialized electrodiagnostic tests available in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area:

Electromyography (EMG)

EMG measures the electrical activity in your muscles. The doctor places small needles into your muscles to record electrical signals as you tighten and relax them. This test helps diagnose muscle disorders, such as muscular dystrophy or nerve damage caused by conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome.

During EMG, you may feel a small prick when your doctor inserts the needle into your muscle. Some people report mild soreness afterward, but this usually goes away within hours.

Nerve Conduction Studies

Nerve conduction studies test the nerve’s ability to send a signal, the strength of that signal and how quickly electrical signals travel through your nerves. Your doctor places small electrodes on your skin, and the electrodes send a mild electrical pulse through the nerve. The test helps identify nerve injuries or compression, which can cause symptoms such as weakness, numbness or pain.

During a nerve conduction study, you may feel a brief tingling or mild shock when the electrical pulse is sent through the nerve. The sensation will not harm you and only lasts a moment.

Most people can resume normal activities immediately after the tests. If you’re nervous about having pain, talk to your doctor. They can explain what to expect and offer tips to help you relax.

Electrodiagnostic Medicine Practitioners

Doctors who specialize in electrodiagnostic medicine have advanced training in neurology, physical medicine or rehabilitation. They may be certified by the American Board of Electrodiagnostic Medicine, which ensures they meet strict standards for education and clinical experience. Specialists often belong to organizations like the American Association of Neuromuscular & Electrodiagnostic Medicine.

These professionals have expertise in diagnosing and treating conditions such as:

• Muscle diseases
• Nerve injuries
• Peripheral neuropathy (nerve damage)
• Spinal disorders that affect nerve function

Electrodiagnostic Medicine Diagnoses

Doctors use electrodiagnostic tests to diagnose a wide range of conditions, including:

• Carpal tunnel syndrome: Compression of the median nerve in the wrist
• Muscular dystrophy: A genetic disorder that weakens muscles over time
• Peripheral neuropathy: Damage to nerves in the hands and feet, often linked to diabetes
• Sciatica: Nerve pain that runs down the leg

Doctors also use these tests to evaluate recovery after a nerve injury or surgery.

When to See a Doctor for Electrodiagnostic Testing

You may need electrodiagnostic testing if you have:

• A history of nerve injury or muscle disorder
• Muscle weakness that affects your ability to move
• Numbness or tingling in your hands or feet
• Pain in your arms, legs or back that doesn’t go away

Early testing and diagnosis with electrodiagnostic medicine can help your doctor create a treatment plan to reduce symptoms and improve your quality of life.

Find your Summit Orthopedics expert, request an appointment online or call us at (651) 968-5201 to schedule a consultation.