Electromyography and conduction studies

These studies are useful to check for muscle or nerve disease.

The examination is performed by a physician.

It consists of two parts:

1. Shocks are delivered through the skin to stimulate a nerve. This is to see whether the nerve is still able to transmit signals properly.
2. For needle EMG, a very fine needle is inserted into a muscle to detect its electrical signals. This allows us to check whether there is nerve damage or muscle damage.

Bear in mind the following practical matters:

• A skin cream can interfere with a portion of the test. For this reason, we ask that you do not use any skin creme on the day of the test.
• If you wear either foot or lower leg compression stockings for fluid accumulation, please be sure to wear those on the day of the test. Keep in mind that they will probably be removed during the test.
• Dress warmly enough when it is cold. It can sometimes be difficult to interpret a portion of the test if extremities — especially hands or feet — are cold.
• Do you take the medication Mestinon for myasthenia and do you come for myasthenia tests? Do not take Mestinon for the twelve hours before the scheduled start of the test.

Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

Neurology

Disorders of the nervous system

Latest publication date: 14/06/2024
Supervising author: Dr Aers Isabelle