EMG/NCS, electromyogram, in-office

An Electromyography (EMG) is a diagnostic test that measures the electric activity of the skeletal muscles. It is a test for the evaluation of neuromuscular conditions (muscle diseases), to assess the severity of some conditions affecting the skeletal muscles, or to evaluate the conductivity of the nerves coming from the spine (radiculopathy). It is combined with a nerve conduction study (NCS) that tests for damage or injury to the nerves of the extremities. The test takes about 15 minutes and is somewhat uncomfortable, particularly when small needles are briefly inserted into muscles to check their function.