Electromyography in Northern New Jersey
At Bergen Pain Management, we offer electromyography testing so we can accurately diagnose the symptoms you’re experiencing. If you’re dealing with pain, tingling, or paralysis in your limbs, then EMG testing might be what you need. With over 25 years of experience, Dr. Thomas Ragukonis specializes in a multitude of non-invasive procedures to alleviate back, neck, or nerve pain, serving patients across Northern New Jersey. Learn more about electromyography testing with Bergen Pain Management.
What Is Electromyography?
Electromyography (EMG) is a diagnostic procedure that assesses your muscle health and motor neurons by exposing them to external electric stimuli and measuring their natural response. It can be used on any part of the body, such as the following:
- Ankle
- Foot
- Cervical spine/neck area
- Elbow
- Hand
- Hip
- Knee
- Lumbar spine/lower back area
- Thoracic spine/mid-back area
Symptoms Warranting An EMG Test
EMGs are used to diagnose certain types of muscle or nerve disorders. Some symptoms that would call for an EMG include:
- Unexplained limb weakness, pain, or cramping
- Tingling
- Paralysis
- Numbness
- Involuntary muscle twitching (tics)
Some conditions that can be detected through electromyography are muscular dystrophy, carpal tunnel, polio, herniated disks, and more.
How Does Electromyography Work?
Motor neurons found in your muscles will usually transmit electrical signals that cause muscles to contract. An EMG uses electrodes to transmit or detect the electrical signals in those muscles. It will then translate these signals into graphs, sounds, and numerical values that Dr. Ragukonis can interpret to determine a diagnosis. Electromyography involves two phases of testing, including:
Nerve Conduction Study
Nerve conduction study is a method of EMG testing that involves electrodes being applied onto the skin’s surface. This method is used to assess how your motor neurons send electric signals and how they communicate with your muscles.
Needle EMG
Needle EMG is another method used to diagnose symptoms of a muscle or nerve disorder. With this method of testing, needle electrodes are gently inserted directly into your muscles to measure electrical activity when muscles are rested and contracted.
Once testing is completed, an accurate diagnosis can be obtained. Dr. Ragukonis can then begin to develop a treatment plan that’s tailored specifically to you and your symptoms.