What is an EMG?

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Dh is having an EMG done today...what is it?

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Electric stimulation of muscles to test response.

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Specializes in LTC, office, home health.

can you give a quick, "simple" expaination to EMG.... I'm getting ready for finals and didn't understand this well the first time and I know I will see it again this week

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Specializes in Only the O.R. and proud of it!.

If memory serves...

ElecroMyeloGram

Probes (electrodes) that carry electric current are placed in muscle, both proximal and distal from the site(s) being tested, to see if the muscle carries the current and/or elicits a response. I hear that it is not comfortable, and afterwards the part(s) of the body tested feel like you have been strenuously exercising. Used to test muscle and nerves, I believe.

Anyone else able to add??

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OIY! Well, he oughtta be happy after it then, huh? LOL

Thanks guys!

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It can be used to test muscles in any part of the body.

It is not a traumatic test...nothing to fear.

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Specializes in ICU, CM, Geriatrics, Management.

An EMG is also a great pick-up for an electric guitar or bass. ;>)

(In a silly mood... sorry.)

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Thanks...he said he felt nothing and they found nothing...this is getting downright frustrating!

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Posted by CNM2B: Thanks...he said he felt nothing and they found nothing...this is getting downright frustrating!

Now, now, tell us what's wrong!

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Specializes in ORTHOPAEDICS-CERTIFIED SINCE 89.

http://my.webmd.com/hw/health_guide_atoz/hw213852.asp

Here's a pretty good explanation. Just because a test is negative (or positive for that matter) does not mean there is not a problem. What caused your DH to need to have an EMG? Best wishes on finding out what's going on.

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I don't even know where to start...he has terrible terrible back and leg pain. He has for years and nobody has ever been able to find a cause. He has been to a GP and now a sports med. dr. They have done x-rays, MRI's and tons of bloodwork. Now, they did the EMG to see if it is something muscular. The dr. is almost at a loss now as to what could be wrong with him, but it is so bad that they have had him on Prescription Motrin and Percocet for years trying to deal with it and the pain meds. are no longer helping as much. Any ideas?

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Specializes in LTC,Hospice/palliative care,acute care.
It can be used to test muscles in any part of the body.

It is not a traumatic test...nothing to fear.

Oh? Mine HURT like a motherscratcher.....Here is a link to a great site with lots of info

http://www.teleemg.com/emgfaq.htm

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