Electrodiagnostic medicine is medical subspecialty. Specially trained physicians use information from a patient’s history and physical exam, along with the results from tests they conduct to record and analyze electrical impulses between muscles and nerves, to diagnose, evaluate and treat neuromuscular, musculoskeletal, and nervous system disorders. Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) patients may have about an electrodiagnostic appointment. If you have other questions, please discuss them with your physician or locate a Board certified physician through the ABEM directory. Neuromuscular medicine is the practice of medicine that involves the care of adult and pediatric patients with disorders of the peripheral nervous system (PNS) and its connections with the central nervous system. The PNS includes the motor and sensory neurons, peripheral nerves, neuromuscular junctions, and muscles. The care of patients with neuromuscular symptoms and signs includes physical examination, clinical investigation, diagnosis, management, and counseling for patients and their families. Neuromuscular medicine requires training and knowledge beyond that expected of a general neurologist or physiatrist. Electrodiagnostic medicine is a part of neuromuscular medicine.

The Needle EMG Test:

For this part of the test, a small, thin needle is put in several muscles to see if there are any problems. It is used once for each patient and is thrown away after the test. There may be a small amount of pain during this part of the examination. The doctor tests only the muscles necessary to decide what is wrong. During the EMG test, the doctor will be able to hear and see how your muscles and nerves are working by the electrical signals made by your muscles. The doctor then uses his medical knowledge to figure out what could be causing your problem.