An Electromyography (EMG) test is a diagnostic procedure that measures the electrical activity of muscles. It's used to:
Evaluate Muscle Function
1. Muscle Weakness: EMG helps diagnose the cause of muscle weakness or paralysis.
2. Muscle Pain: EMG is used to diagnose conditions that cause muscle pain, such as fibromyalgia.
3. Neuromuscular Disorders: EMG helps diagnose conditions like muscular dystrophy, ALS, and peripheral neuropathy.
How EMG Works
1. Electrodes: Small electrodes are inserted into the muscle to record electrical activity.
2. Muscle Signals: The electrodes detect the electrical signals generated by muscle activity.
3. Signal Analysis: The signals are analyzed to determine the muscle's electrical activity.
Types of EMG Tests
1. Invasive EMG: Electrodes are inserted into the muscle using a needle.
2. Surface EMG: Electrodes are placed on the skin's surface to record muscle activity.