The full form of EMG is Electromyography. This is a type of test that looks at muscles and nerves and the connection between them. Electromyography is used to assess the state of communication between muscle and nerve. This diagnostic process records and evaluates the electrical movement of skeletal muscle using electromyography. The recording is known as an electromyogram.
Nerve cells inside the human body generate motor signals that send signals to other nerves and muscles. Using the abbreviation EMG, doctors evaluate whether your muscles are responding properly to these signals or not. Nerve cells are also known as motor neurons, which claim to receive a signal and act accordingly.
What is the key function of EMG?
The key function of EMG is to check the state of communication between nerve cells and muscles. If your muscles can't send the necessary signals to the connective tissues, you won't be able to do your daily work with ease. Doctors use electromyography to monitor the condition of your nervous system.
The full meaning of an EMG observes the electrical activity of your nerves in response to signals sent by your muscles. If there are any neuromuscular abnormalities, they can be easily detected by EMG. Please note that during the procedure, more than one small needle will be inserted into your muscle and penetrate the skin.
Is the electromyography test painful?
Yes, EMG for short or electromyography test is painful because small needles are needed to penetrate the skin to get into the muscles. The whole process can cause discomfort. Your muscles may also sore for a few days after the test. So be prepared if you are on your way to an EMG test.
What if the reading turns out to be abnormal?
If you experience symptoms such as muscle weakness, then your doctor may suggest that you undergo an EMG test. The test will determine whether the problem is with your muscle that does the work or the nervous system that controls the muscles. The process can only state whether there are any abnormalities in your muscles or not. The test will not tell you why the abnormalities are occurring. Your specialist doctor will guide you on this.
What is a normal EMG result?
A normal EMG test will reveal the fact that your nervous system is perfectly fine sending signals to your muscles. It also says that your muscles receive the signals and carry out the commands correctly. The normal range of nerve conduction velocity is 50-60. If the message comes out with a lower number, it means your nerve is sending weaker messages to your muscles.
Conditions under which a doctor may ask you to undergo an EMG test:
- Paralysis
- Armor
- Muscle cramps and weakness