What does EMG stand for?
• What is an EMG? Loosely translated an EMG is an electrical testing of muscles but in fact has come to mean electrical testing of nerves and muscles. The EMG is performed by a specialist, the Electromyographer, who is usually a Neurologist or a Physiatrist. Parts of the test (the nerve conductions) may be performed by a specially trained technician. It is an in-office procedure and does not require hospitalization. On average, an EMG takes anywhere between 30 minutes and 2 hours, depending on how extensive a testing your doctor orders on you. It can be done at any time during the day and, with few exceptions, does not require any special preparation. Sometimes EMGs are thought to be a treatment of some sort, or a type of acupuncture. This is not true; an EMG is only a test, much like an EKG or an X-ray are tests and not treatments. Back to Top • What are some problems for which EMGs are ordered? EMGs are usually ordered when patients are having problems with their muscles or nerves. T
