Electromyography (EMG) is a diagnostic test that measures the electrical activity of muscles. A physician often orders the test to help identify and diagnose various neuromuscular conditions, such as muscle weakness, nerve damage, and muscle disorders.
EMG is a critical tool in the diagnosis of multiple conditions, including the following:
- Mononeuropathies (i.e., carpal tunnel)
- Radiculopathies: (i.e., sciatica)
- Plexopathies (i.e., brachial plexus injuries)
- Polyneuropathy (i.e., diabetic neuropathy)
- Myopathy (i.e., polymyositis)
- Motor Neuron Disease (i.e., ALS – Lou Gehrig’s Disease)
- Myotonic Disease (i.e., muscular dystrophy)
- NMJ Disease (i.e., Myasthenia Gravis)
EMG testing helps our Therapy West Physical Therapy & Sports Medicine physical therapists understand the symptoms’ root cause and create a more targeted and effective treatment plan.
At Therapy West Physical Therapy & Sports Medicine, our therapist performs EMG testing. It involves the insertion of a needle electrode into the muscle being tested. The electrode records the electrical signals produced by the muscle, which is used to determine the presence of any muscle or nerve disorders.
The results of an EMG test can provide valuable information about the function of a muscle or nerve by measuring the speed and strength of electrical signals as they travel through nerves.
For example, if a muscle is weak, the electrical signals recorded during the EMG test will be low amplitude. This indicates that the muscle is not functioning correctly. Similarly, if a nerve is compressed or injured, the EMG test can reveal evidence of a nerve disorder, such as sciatica.
Once the results of the EMG test have been interpreted, the therapist will use the information to tailor the treatment plan to address each patient’s specific needs and goals.
Our therapists will design exercise programs that target the muscle group(s) that are not working correctly or are compensating due to an injury. In addition, this information helps guide our instructions on managing any nerve-related symptoms.
At Therapy West Physical Therapy & Sports Medicine, our physical therapists use EMGs to provide critical information about the function of muscles and nerves and ensure we achieve the best possible outcomes for our patients!
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