Neurosciences - Electromyography (EMG)

Introduction

Following the nerve conduction test, you may need to have an Electromyography (EMG) test.

Electromyography (EMG) is a procedure used to check how well the muscles are working in your arms and/or legs.

Why do EMG?

EMG when combined with a history, examination and scan results may help to diagnose a wide range of muscle conditions. Your doctor will be able to explain why it is important for you to have this test.

How is EMG performed?

A fine needle is inserted into various muscles in your body. You will be asked to first relax the limb and then to move it. The doctor may need to test several different muscles.

You will feel a sharp scratch when the needle is inserted and discomfort when you exercise the muscle. The recording machine can be noisy as you move and become nosier the more movements you make.

What are the side effects and risks?

Afterwards the muscle may bruise, and it may feel sore. Most people tolerate the procedure without any problem.

In rare cases the limb may bruise badly, and the limb may swell (this is almost only seen in people who have a low platelet count, who suffer from bleeding disorders such as haemophilia or who are on blood thinning medications such as heparin, warfarin or synthrone). If this happens you should go straight to the Accident and Emergency department.

If you are taking blood thinning medication, for example, Warfarin or newer anticoagulants such as Apixaban, Rivaroxaban, Endoxaban,or Heparin, please inform the department and the doctor before the test. The doctor will take appropriate precautions. Do not stop the blood thinning medication without informing the doctor.

If you are taking Warfarin, in order to proceed with the test, you will need to have had a recent INR blood test (within a day or two of your appointment with us).

If this information is not available this test will not be performed.

If your INR reading is considered too high by the doctor performing the test, this test will not be performed. This is for your safety.

If the test can’t be performed on the day, the doctor will answer your questions and discuss the options with you.

If you need to have the test done around the chest wall, the doctor may ask you to remain in the waiting area for around 30 minutes after the test. This is because examining around the chest wall carries a small risk of pneumothorax (air entering the lungs). This is a very rare side effect. However, should you develop chest pain and shortness of breath after the procedure, you should immediately attend the Accident and Emergency department. If you do develop a pneuomothorax you will be admitted to the hospital to have further intervention.

The test will not effect your ability to drive.

What happens if I decide to have an EMG?

You will have the opportunity to ask the doctor questions about the information in this leaflet before you decide whether or not to have an EMG.

There will be no need to sign a formal consent form. As soon as you agree to the test we can begin. The entire procedure usually takes 20-60mins.

On the day of the test please avoid using a sun barrier and other types of skin cream. Please have a bath or shower the night before your test.

Wear short sleeves and loose-fitting clothes. You may need to undress down to your underwear. Blankets and gowns are provided but if you wish you may bring your own shorts and/or t- shirt to wear.

Please remove any rings, watches or bracelets prior to attending the department. If removing a ring is difficult then don’t worry, just remove as many as possible.

What happens if I decide not to have an EMG?

Your doctor will need to discuss the likely consequences of this decision. For example, your doctor may find it more difficult to diagnose and/or treat your condition.

Is there anything else I should know?

• Please arrive in good time for your appointment. If you think you will be late, please telephone us as soon as possible. It may be necessary to re-book another appointment for you.
• Parking can be difficult - please allow for this, it can take up to 40 minutes to park depending upon how busy the hospital is. Please park on the East car park on Stott lane which is closest (5– 10-minute walk) to our department. There is a charge for parking, which can be paid by card or coins.
• This test is safe in pregnancy
• You may eat and drink normally before your test
• Please note there are no facilities for childcare while you are having your test. For safety reasons, children of any age are not allowed in the test rooms
• If you are currently taking any medication you should continue to do so, unless otherwise advised by your own GP or consultant
• If you require ambulance transport, you should contact your own GP to make the arrangements. Please let us know if you will be coming by ambulance transport
• You may be invited back to have further tests if the consultant in our department or your referring doctor/consultant thinks that a repeat test or a different test may be helpful
• In this case you may receive an appointment for another test before seeing your referring doctor/consultant for the results of your first test. The main reason for this is to save time and inconvenience for you

Contact details

Telephone:0161 206 2068
Email: reftoneurophys@nca.nhs.uk
Department of Clinical Neurophysiology,1st Floor, Barnes Building Salford Royal Hospital, Stott Lane, Salford, M6 8HD.