Electromyography (EMG) is a technique used for evaluating and recording the electrical activity produced by skeletal muscles. An EMG is used to assess the health of muscles and the nerve cells that control them, using electrodes to transmit or detect electrical signals. EMG results can reveal nerve dysfunction, muscle dysfunction or problems with nerve-to-muscle signal transmission.

 

An EMG is done if you have signs or symptoms that may indicate a nerve or muscle disorder. Such symptoms may include:

• Muscle imbalances that cause overuse injuries
• Numbness or tingling in your muscles
• Muscle weakness, pain or cramping
• Certain types of limb pain
• Weakness as result of stroke or traumatic injury
• Post-surgery neuromuscular deficits (eg: drop foot)