Debunking the Top 3 Myths of EMG/Nerve Conduction Studies.
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Transcript of Debunking the Top 3 Myths of EMG/Nerve Conduction Studies.
Kevin Klos, M.D.
Debunking the Top 3 Myths of EMG/Nerve Conduction Studies
Myth #1:EMG Testing is Painful
Myth #1 EMG Testing is painful
“There was minimal discomfort, brief aching sensations only lasting a few seconds…the test was so much better than what I had anticipated.”
Part 1: Nerve Conduction Study
What is an EMG test?
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Part 2: Electromyogram
EMG recordings from various muscles of the arm and back
EMG testing only assesses the Peripheral Nervous System
-Powerful diagnostic tool to assess the function of peripheral nerves and muscles that may not be obtainable by other diagnostic testing
-Outpatient procedure
-Minimal discomfort if performed with proper technique by trained Electromyographer
-No sedation required
Nerve Conduction Studies/ EMG
Myth #2: All EMG tests are the same no matter where the test is performed
-EMG results extremely dependent upon the skill and experience of the examiner
- Technical factors can produce erroneous results
-The muscles and nerves selected for testing is as important as the competency of the examiner
Myth #2: All EMG tests are the same
*EMGs should only be performed by properly trained physicians in the specialty of Neurology or PM&R
Myth #3:EMGs do not differentiate an acute problem from an old or chronic nerve problem
-EMG testing is normal in the first 2 weeks after a nerve injury
-EMG testing differentiates between a recent injury and an old and chronic injury
Myth #3: EMGs do not differentiate old from the new
-Comparing multiple EMGs allows for differentiating a progressive versus fixed deficit
-EMG testing differentiates an active problem from an old and inactive problem
Myth #3: EMGs do not differentiate old from the new
*EMG testing can be performed with minimal discomfort
*EMG testing must be performed by properly trained technicians and physicians. The test is an extension of the neurological exam
Conclusions:
*EMG testing will diagnose peripheral nerve problems including Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Ulnar nerve lesions, Spinal nerve root problems (Radiculopathy), Muscle disease, Peripheral Neuropathies (such as Diabetic neuropathy) and others
Conclusions:
*EMG will differentiate an old injury from a new injury, as well as an active and ongoing problem from an old, fixed injury
*EMG testing determine if a patient’s symptoms and complaints have an objective peripheral nerve abnormality explanation
Conclusions:
Thank you!