Banner image

Electromyography (EMG)

Electromyography (EMG) is an electrical stimulation test that checks the health of your muscles and the nerves that control your muscles and sensation.

EMG is often ordered when you have muscle weakness, pain or abnormal sensation. It can evaluate the health of the nerves and the muscles in the body outside of the brain and spinal cord. 

Learn more

What to expect from electromyography (EMG)

There are usually two parts to an EMG study.

  1. nerve conduction study

    Your doctor will test the length of your nerves by delivering small electrical impulses and record responses from your sensory and motor nerves. 

  2. The electromyography (EMG)

    Your doctor will insert a very thin needle through your skin into the muscle. The electrode on the needle records the electrical activity given off by your muscles. This electrical activity appears on a nearby monitor and is heard through a speaker.

After the electrodes are placed in the muscle, you may be asked to contract the muscle. For example, you might be asked to bend your arm. The electrical activity seen on the monitor provides information about your muscle's ability to respond when the nerves to your muscles are stimulated.

EMG can detect

Muscle weakness, pain or abnormal sensation. It can evaluate the health of the nerves and the muscles in the body outside of the brain and spinal cord. 

Good to know about EMG

You may feel some pain or discomfort during electrical stimulation or when the needles are inserted. Most people are able to complete the test without problems. After the test, the muscle may feel tender or bruised for a few hours to a few days.

Related links

Reviewed by: Ellie Madison

Last reviewed: 8/2/2018

Allina Health Everyday Clinic

This is a retail clinic location. We offer basic services for minor injuries and illnesses for patients 18 months and older. We do not see visits for workers' or injury compensation.

From the list below, please select the condition that best describes what you would like to be seen for. If you do not see what you are looking for, please visit an Urgent Care location or schedule a visit with your primary care provider.
I do not see my condition

Everyday On Wheels

Everyday On Wheels mobile clinic is not wheel chair accessible due to the size of the vehicle. Patients should be able to safely climb a short set of stairs to enter the mobile clinic.

Please arrive 10 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment time and have your mobile phone available for the provider to contact you when they are ready to see you.
I agree to these conditions

We've changed how we provide some services with your care and safety in mind. Expanded virtual care services are available to schedule online. You can also call your clinic for help finding the best option.

Have you been to an Allina Health clinic or hospital before?

If you're not sure, choose No.
Yes No
;

Who is this appointment for?

Adult
18 years and older.
 Child
0-17 years.

What’s the reason for your visit?

Only these primary care appointments can be scheduled online. For all other appointments or with any questions, call 1-888-425-5462.

Health insurance coverage for physicals varies depending on your plan. Contact your insurance provider to verify coverage, especially if you've scheduled less than a year from your last physical exam.
Physical
Exam and review of health, including screenings.
 Office visit
Care for illness, injury or specific concerns.
;

What’s the reason for your visit?

Only these primary care appointments can be scheduled online. For all other appointments or with any questions, call 1-888-425-5462.

Health insurance coverage for physicals varies depending on your plan. Contact your insurance provider to verify coverage, especially if you've scheduled less than a year from your last physical exam.
Well-child visit
Checkup of child's growth and development.
 Office visit
Care for illness, injury or specific concerns.
;