Updates, EMG in June, what to expect?

[freezyreeze]

Hi! My previous thread was closed so I hope it is okay for me to post again! Thank you. There is so much time between my appointments due to appointment availability. Just wanting to leave an update and ask a question or two.

I saw neuro, she confirmed the constant fasciculations on the right side of my tongue and some "scalloping" and has referred me for an EMG in June.

Some of this is foreign language to me, but she noted on my chart "mild" hyperreflexia right UE (brachioradialis, biceps, triceps) and hypertonicity in my right upper trap, right SCM, paraspinals and B suboccipitals.

Suprapatellar reflex is absent.

Slight cross adductors present.

Pinprick response slightly less on right hand.

Something new: I have been dropping things while stationary with my right hand, like if I'm holding keys or paper and just standing, I will randomly drop it, or if I am writing I will just suddenly drop the pen for no reason, as if my hand gave up on gripping. It's not constant, but happens enough for me to notice.

I asked her if it's possible for a hypomobile spine or cervical spine pinching nerves to cause my tongue to twitch, since when I go to PT for some cervicogenic headaches they mention I have limited range of motion in C3 and C4, she said that the cervical spine would not affect my tongue.

So, as far as the EMG goes, what can I expect?
How deep do the needles go into the tongue and how bad does it hurt? I want to be prepared if I should expect a lot of pain. And how long does a tongue EMG typically last?
Anything that would be helpful for me to know prior?

Thank you all again so much for your time!

 

[Nikki J]

It would depend on the examiner whether they actually do the tongue. I have had about 20 for research and never had a tongue emg. There are other sites they use for bulbar such as under the chin. Whether in your case they will do the tongue you will have to wait. In general needles aren’t deep and they don’t jab right in like an injection. They slide in at an angle

In my experience ( and I have had an emg of the facial muscles )it isn’t really painful unless they hit a nerve. Then they quickly reposition. An emg of any muscle is quick ( a minute or two). How long the emg is depends on the number of muscles and efficiency of the examiner. Don’t use lotion on the day - it hurts more. Wear loose clothing. You may or may not have to change completely . One study doctor asked for shorts and tshirts but that is not necessary in the clinical setting