Our EMG clinic consists of one clinic room containing an electromyograph – a complex apparatus used for diagnosing problems in muscles and nerves.
To be referred to our service, you would typically show signs or symptoms of nerve or muscle problems consisting of numbness, tingling pain, weakness or some combination of these. Such symptoms can have many causes, and it is the role of EMG to find evidence of nerve or muscle damage and to provide a diagnosis to the physician who referred you here, so that appropriate treatment can be given.
In our practice, the most common diagnosis is a single “pinched nerve”, for example at the wrist (carpal tunnel syndrome) or perhaps in the neck or the lower back. We also often test people who have more widespread symptoms due to a problem with the nerves in general – quite common in diabetes. Often our EMG test results show nothing abnormal, or the test results might point to a diagnosis quite different from that suggested by the physician who sent you, so EMG might spare you unnecessary or inappropriate treatments.
The service is currently staffed by 2 neurologists and two EMG technicians.
How is an EMG done?
An EMG test is usually done in two parts. First it is the nerve conduction study, done by an experienced technician who places recording electrodes to the skin near a specific muscle or nerve. She then applies an electrical stimulus to the skin to different sites along the course of the nerve. The EMG machine shows the electrical response of the nerve or muscle on a computer monitor, giving an immediate indication of the health of that nerve. (This procedure takes approximately 30 to 40 minutes).
The second part of the test is a consultation with the Neurologist. If judged necessary there will be the needling EMG. This part is done by the Neurologist and does not involve electric stimulation. Instead, an electrode resembling an acupuncture pin is inserted into muscle tissue where it acts as an antenna for recording electrical activity. Nerve and muscle diseases alter the pattern of electrical activity in muscles. (This procedure takes approximately 15-20 minutes).
Does the test hurt?
The test can be uncomfortable, but almost everyone tolerates them quite well. The electrical stimulation causes some discomfort, similar to that odd feeling you get in your little finger when you tap your “funny bone” at the elbow. The needle electrode may cause some discomfort, although it should be less painful than an injection because nothing is being injected and the needles are very finely tapered. These procedures will not affect your walking, driving.
How does a client prepare for an EMG?
Eat normally and take your usual medications. Bring a list of your medication and dosages to complete the medical history.
If symptoms are in the legs, it is preferred that you bring along a pair of shorts rather than to change into one of our Hospital gowns. If symptoms are in the arms and hands, it is helpful if your sleeves are short or easily rolled up. Please do not apply oily skin lotions prior to testing.
How long does it take to receive the results?
After you had the second part of the EMG, a complete report will be dictated then sent to the referring physician, this might take two to three weeks. Please feel free to ask the neurologist for a preliminary written report to facilitate faster communication with your primary physician.
Do clients require a referral from their doctor in order to have access to your services?
Yes
Hours and days of operation:
8:00 AM to 3:30 PM, Monday to Friday
Public phone number and/or email. :
(613) 632-1111, ext. 364
(800) 790-8870, ext. 5