Services / Electromyography (EMG)

If you’re experiencing unusual sensations, electromyography (EMG) can offer insight into your muscle and nerve function. This advanced diagnostic tool is among the services available from Cascade Orthopaedics in Auburn, Washington. If you’re ready to schedule your EMG, booking options include a simple online scheduling tool or a quick phone call to the office. 

What is electromyography?

Electromyography (EMG) is a type of diagnostic assessment that determines how well your muscles and the nerve cells that control muscle fibers (motor neurons) are working. This straightforward test can determine if you are experiencing muscle dysfunction, nerve dysfunction, or issues with the way your body conducts signals between your nerves and muscles. 

EMG testing uses electrodes to translate the electric signals that prompt your muscle fibers to contract. The technology converts those signals into graphs, numerical symbols, or even sounds. Cascade Orthopaedics then interprets those results to understand how your nerves and muscles are functioning.  

What sensations prompt an EMG?

If you have certain symptoms, electromyography might be a good way to determine the source. Some examples of sensations that might prompt an EMG include:

• Muscle weakness
• Limb pain
• Numbness
• Tingling
• Muscle pain and cramping

Electromyography might play a role in diagnosing the following conditions:

• Peripheral nerve conditions
• Muscle disorders
• Disorders that affect the transmitting of signals between nerve and muscle tissue
• Disorders that affect the nerve roots
• Disorders that affect the motor neurons in the brain and spinal cord

If Cascade Orthopaedics believes an EMG can enhance your diagnostic experience, you’ll learn more about why the test is needed and what to expect.  

What should I expect during EMG?

Your active participation is critical to the success of EMG testing. When you arrive for your visit, you’ll change into a gown before resting on the exam table or chair. 

Your doctor then places the electrodes near the area where you’re experiencing pain or unusual sensations. Some electrodes are placed on the surface of your skin, while others use tiny needles to position the electrodes. 

Once the electrodes are properly positioned, the team at Cascade Orthopaedics will ask you to complete some simple muscle movements. You might be asked to raise or lower a limb or contract or relax certain muscles. A portion of the test also assesses how your nerves and muscles function during periods of rest. 

You may experience sensations like spasms or twinges during the assessment. This occurs due to a minute electrical current created during the test. These sensations will cease when the electrodes are removed. There is no significant pain associated with EMG. 

If you’d like more information about the role EMG electromagnetic studies might play in your diagnostic journey, call or schedule an appointment online.