What does Electromyography (EMG) consist of? Is it painful? How long does the pr!
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For an EMG, a needle electrode is inserted through the skin into the muscle. The electrical activity detected by this electrode is displayed on an oscilloscope, and may be heard through a speaker. After placement of the electrodes, you may be asked to contract the muscle (for example, by bending your arm). The presence, size, and shape of the wave form -- the action potential -- produced on the oscilloscope provide information about the ability of the muscle to respond when the nerves are stimulated. There is some undeniable discomfort at the time the needle electrodes are inserted. They feel like shots (intramuscular injection), although nothing is injected during an EMG. Afterwards, the muscle may feel a little sore for up to a few days. You can read more about it here
http://www.stjohnsmercy.org/healthinfo/test/neuro/TP012.asp
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I had it done to test for carple tunnel syndrome. It was very uncomfortable, but not to the point that I was in tears. They stuck needles into my nerves in my hands and wrists. It does hurt, I won't lie, but it was not unbearable. It took about 15 minutes.
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