What Is Electromyography?

Electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies are specific tests used by the physical medicine and rehabilitation specialists at Orthopedic Associates of Port Huron to measure the nerves and muscles in your body.

“I use a sophisticated computer, along with tiny electrodes on the surface of the skin, to precisely measure the speed of the nerves to determine if one is pinched,” explains Dr. Matthew J. Sciotti, physical medicine and rehabilitation specialist at Orthopedic Associates of Port Huron. “EMG and nerve conduction testing allows me to precisely determine which nerves are pinched, especially when a patient has a herniated disc in his or her neck or low back.”

Dr. Sciotti says that several conditions, including sciatica, carpal tunnel syndrome, and pinched nerves in the neck, can be diagnosed properly and accurately with this form of testing.

Further imaging, including X-rays or an MRI scan, can also improve the accuracy of a diagnosis and help our physical medicine and rehabilitation specialists determine a specific treatment method tailored to the patient’s individual needs.

If patients do not respond well to conservative treatment methods, such as medication and physical therapy, Dr. Sciotti may recommend the use of interventional pain management techniques to reduce a patient’s pain and symptoms. In many cases, performing electromyography and nerve conduction studies can aid in an earlier diagnosis and treatment, eliminating a patient’s need for surgery.

If you have questions about electromyography or would like to schedule an appointment with one of the physical medicine and rehabilitation doctors at Orthopedic Associates of Port Huron, call (810) 985-4900 or click here to request an appointment online.