EMG
EMG means the printing of electrical signals received from nerves and muscles. EMG; It is an examination method used to diagnose diseases affecting the nerves, to confirm the diagnosis, to determine the severity of dysfunctions or structural damages, to monitor the disease process and to evaluate the effect of the treatment applied.
EMG, which is one of the most frequently used techniques, is a diagnostic method that is easily used in every field. It stands for Electro myography. EMG; It is a system for measuring impaired functions in the nervous system and is a method used to diagnose diseases affecting peripheral (peripheral) nerves.
It is possible to say that it is a method used to confirm the diagnosis, to determine the severity of functional disorders or structural damages caused by the peripheral nerve. The measurements made during the EMG test may vary. The most commonly applied tests are nerve conduction studies and needle electromyography tests.
Before the EMG test is performed, the patient should consult the doctor who will perform the test by showing these medications to the doctor if there are medications to be used. It is a procedure performed in a very short time. There is no damage during the application or any side effects afterwards.
In which cases is EMG performed?
EMG is a measurement performed on patients who need it. So, in which cases is EMG performed?
Diseases that are suitable for EMG; Measurements are made in many diseases such as polyneuropathies, focal entrapment neuropathies, radiculopathies, myopathies, motor neurone diseases, neuromuscular diseases.
EMG, which provides information about many brain functions, is applied both with and without needle. It can be applied to people of all ages and physical characteristics. It is among the methods generally applied for people with problems in brain functions. There is no pain or serious pain during application. The places where it is usually performed are the upper extremities (arm forearm and hand and fingers) and lower extremities (leg foot and toes).
- In metabolic complaints such as diabetes, vitamin B12, folic acid deficiency,
- Organ failures (kidney, liver),
- Rheumatism-related diseases,
- Cancer,
- Chronic alcohol abuse,
- Work with toxic substances,
- Immune system diseases,
- Hereditary causes,
- Polio
- ALS,
- Muscle diseases,
- Nerve diseases
- Myasthenia Gravis
- Cervical and lumbar radiculopathy
- Nerve Compression
Things to Consider Before EMG
- – The patient need not be hungry,
- – If you are taking medication regularly, there is no harm in taking it. However, in special cases, he/she should not take certain medicines, in which case the physician will warn him/her in advance.
- – Wearing comfortable clothes makes the examination easier. Patients are advised to wear comfortable clothes that allow them to open their arms or legs in a way that is suitable for filming. Female patients are advised not to wear pantyhose.
- – If they have a pacemaker, it is recommended to warn the physician before the examination.
Is EMG Reliable?
EMG method is applied by doctors and no side effects are seen in the patient. It is among the methods that are easily applied without feeling pain or pain. So, is EMG reliable? EMG is a measurement technique approved by reputable scientific authorities. In this respect, it is one of the most reliable methods. There is no need for a preliminary preparation for the patient who wants to have an EMG.
These examinations performed by neurology specialists take an average of 20-25 minutes and there is no situation that requires the patient to stay in the hospital after the procedure.