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Diagnostics

EMG (Electromyography)

A test that checks how well the muscles, and the nerves that control them, are working.

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Overview

Electromyography (EMG) measures the electrical activity of muscles at rest and when they tighten. It helps to show whether weakness is coming from the muscle itself or from the nerve that supplies it.

EMG is often done together with nerve conduction studies (NCV/NCS).

Please confirm with the clinic when you book whether this test is currently available and where it will be done.

Why this test may be advised

  • Muscle weakness, wasting or cramps
  • Suspected pressure on a nerve root, for example from a slipped disc
  • Suspected muscle disease (myopathy) or motor neuron disease
  • Numbness or weakness where the cause is unclear

Having one or more of these does not by itself mean you have a particular condition. A doctor's assessment is needed to find the cause.

What the test involves

  1. A very thin needle electrode is placed into selected muscles.
  2. You are asked to relax the muscle and then tighten it gently.
  3. You may feel mild discomfort while the needle is in place.
  4. The signals recorded from each muscle are reviewed.

Who may need this test

  • People advised by a doctor to have an EMG to investigate muscle or nerve symptoms

How to prepare

It helps to bring:

  • Ask the clinic when you book whether there are any specific instructions for this test
  • Tell the doctor if you take blood-thinning medicines or have a bleeding disorder
  • Wear loose clothing so that your arms and legs can be examined easily
  • Previous medical reports, prescriptions and hospital discharge summaries
  • MRI or CT scan films and reports, if you have them
  • A list of all the medicines you take, with their doses
  • A short note of your symptoms: when they started, how often they happen and what makes them better or worse
Test Preparation What to Bring

What happens next

  • A report is prepared from the recordings.
  • The doctor explains the results along with your symptoms and examination.
  • Further tests or treatment may be advised depending on the findings.

Recommendations depend on the clinician's assessment of your individual situation. This website cannot diagnose your condition or guarantee a particular result.

Frequently asked questions

Does EMG hurt?

Most people feel mild discomfort, similar to a small pinprick, when the needle is inserted. Any soreness usually settles quickly.

What is the difference between EMG and NCV?

A nerve conduction study (NCV/NCS) measures how well electrical signals travel along the nerves. EMG records the activity of the muscles. Together they help to locate nerve and muscle problems.

Clinic locations

Please confirm the OPD day, timings and availability of this service when you book.

This page gives general information to help you understand this topic. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace a consultation with a doctor.

In an emergency

If you or someone with you has sudden weakness or numbness, facial drooping, slurred speech, a seizure lasting more than 5 minutes, a sudden severe headache or loss of consciousness, call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department immediately. Do not wait for an appointment or rely on this website.

Call 112

Related services

Myopathy

Conditions affecting the muscles, causing weakness, often around the hips and shoulders.

View Details: Myopathy

Book an appointment or contact the clinic

Call or send a WhatsApp message to ask about appointment times at the Patna, Ara and Siwan clinics.

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