Emg

[Bcat24]

I have been experiencing some symptoms over the past few months that have worried me quite a bit. I am not going to get into the specifics of the symptoms at this point. Instead, I have some questions regarding EMGs. I am scheduled to get one in a few weeks and I am really hoping that I get some answers.

First, I know that this test cannot and does not provide a diagnosis of ALS. However, I know that there can be certain things that the test picks up on that may be areas of concern. What is the most important thing to pay attention to during the tests? Are there certain questions I can ask while the test is being administered? I want to make sure I am as informed as possible when the test is happening so I can get answers.

Once the test is over what should I pay attention to? What are the specific areas of concerns that would be present on a "dirty" result?

Next, my doctor initially scheduled me to do just the lower body because that is where the majority of my issues exist. I do have some concerning things about my arms/hands as well. Should I request to do both upper and lower body?

Lastly, if this thing comes back clean am I safe to breathe a big sigh of relief and begin living my life normal again? I am really hoping this clears some things up for me as the past few months have been rough. I want to be able to put my fears aside so I want to make sure and be as informed as possible during this entire process.

I appreciate everyone who takes the time on this site to help answer questions, especially those who are dealing with this horrific disease. You are all truly amazing for helping out others.

Much appreciation -

Jon

 

[ShiftKicker]

Mod note: please read https://www.alsforums.com/forum/do-i-have-als-als/40764-reason-concern-long-post.html to see full history in order to provide informed responses. Past thread was closed automatically due to inactivity only.

I am not an expert in emg results or technique- I am positive others can step in with knowledgeable answers there.

With regards to asking questions during the emg- it depends on who is conducting it. If it's a technician, they will provide a full report to your doctor to go over the results with you. If it's your doctor or a neuromuscular doctor conducting the test, a discussion might be possible during the test. If the emg turns up something the technician needs to explore further to clarify, they will.

If there is something to pick up, your legs will be where it's at. Any dysfunction there will provide a stronger signal than your arms might, because your legs are where you say your symptoms started.

 

[KimT]

What you need to do during the test is to remain still while the test is being conducted. After the test is over, your questions may or may not be answered.

At Mayo, a technician does the nerve conduction part of the test and a doctor does the EMG. Then the results go to the specialist. I was not allowed to ask questions before my doctor got the results

At Johns Hopkins a neurologist did both portions of the test and the results went to the neuro specialist. The neurologist doing the test answered my questions after he finished.

At University of Florida, the neuro specialist did both portions of the test and talked to me throughout.

Just relax and take the test. Don't distract the person doing it.

 

[lgelb]

You do not need to have all possible muscles EMG'd to pick up a problem. And, for example, if you need muscle biopsy in an EMG'd muscle soon after, having had the EMG will skew it.

I can't speak for everything besides ALS it could eliminate without knowing more of your history, but it will certainly illuminate if you have a primary problem with either your muscles or nerves. If it is clean, and especially if the brain and spine are imaged and there are no findings, then a number of diagnoses are off the table.

Best,
Laurie