EMG limited muscles tested

[Rschroe]

Hello. I recently had an EMG and nerve conduction study performed on my left arm. I have been having what I believe is wasting on my left forearm and weakness along my whole left arm, most specifically in my hand. I have other symptoms to do with speaking and swallowing, but because the more pressing concern is to do with my arm, that’s where I’m focussing on in this thread.

First he did a nerve conduction study on my left forearm, elbow and upper arm. But he only performed an EMG on two muscles (my bicep and tricep…which tested as normal). Most of my concerns are pertaining to my forearm and hand and I don’t understand why he wouldn’t have checked that area if it is where I am concerned I have weakness and wasting.

So my question is, will an EMG of the upper arm be able to detect ALS if my weakness and wasting is in my lower arm and hand?

 

[lgelb]

Yes. That you are "concerned" rather than made aware of weakness and wasting by a clinician, is also very reassuring.
The hallmark of ALS is specific abnormalities in most or all muscles tested, including those that you have no problems with.
It would also be very unusual for ALS to present with speech, swallowing, and full-arm deficits.