What does electromyography assess?
EMG studies the way the nerves conduct electrical signals and how the muscles respond. The exam usually has two parts:
- Nerve conduction study — electrodes on the skin and small electrical pulses measure the speed and strength of the nerves' response.
- Needle-electrode muscle assessment — a very fine electrode records the electrical activity of some muscles, at rest and during light contraction.
The doctor tailors the study to your symptoms and to the question raised by your referring doctor — not everyone has both parts.
When it is requested
- Tingling, numbness or loss of strength in the hands or feet.
- Carpal tunnel syndrome and other nerve compressions.
- Sciatica or radiating neck pain — assessment of radiculopathies.
- Peripheral neuropathies — for example in diabetes.
- Muscle disorders, in specialist assessment.
What the exam is like
- 1Before
Reception
Arrive with your referral and, if you have them, any previous exams (EMG, MRI, blood tests) — they help the neurologist guide the study.
- 2
Nerve conduction
You feel small electrical taps, brief and well tolerated, along the paths of the nerves being studied.
- 320–40 min
Muscle assessment
When needed, a very fine needle electrode is inserted into some muscles — this may cause mild, brief discomfort.
- 4
Finishing up
You get on with your day with no restrictions. You may feel mild tenderness at the points assessed, which soon passes.
Preparation
- Skin: clean and dry — do not apply creams or oils to your arms and legs on the day of the exam.
- Medication: keep to your regular medication; tell us when booking if you take anticoagulants.
- Pacemaker or other implanted devices: always tell the team.
- Clothing: comfortable, allowing your arms and legs to be exposed.
- Temperature: on cold days, warm your hands and feet before the exam — it improves the quality of the recording.
Results
The exam is performed and interpreted by a consultant neurologist. The report is available as a PDF (by email or printed) and, with your written authorisation, can be sent directly to your referring doctor.