is the emg test for carpal tunnel painful

Or one of my pet peeves, waveforms described as “positive sharp waves” (indicative of nerve root injury) that are actually motor end plate potentials, a normal finding. For example, CTS was recognized but never quantified so that the referring physician would be unable to determine evidence based treatment based on the actual severity of nerve entrapment. An additional problem when waveforms were available for review, was to find multiple ‘technical’ errors, the most common being the failure to recognize abnormal motor and sensory amplitudes indicative of axonal neuropathy, or incorrect nerve latencies where the latency marker was over an abnormal baseline easily recognized as 60-cycle interference, or missing a reduced motor amplitude indicative of axonal damage due to focal entrapment neuropathy. It is appalling to find conclusions not supported by the data provided, or worse yet, the correct diagnosis ignored when the data clearly supported a specific diagnosis.

I had to agree after a brief review of sample reports. This provider complained that the studies were often equivocal or conclusions vague without much definitive information to help with treatment decisions.

Inform your doctor if you are on a blood thinner (anticoagulant) or of you have hepatitis B/C or HIV.I had a recent conversation with a physician asking why EMG/NCV should be ordered on most patients presenting to a chronic pain practice.

Dress lightly, preferably with a short sleeved shirt, shorts or loose pants.

Do not apply any lotion or cream on your body.

Please take a shower and remember to scrub both sides of your feet, and your hands.

Please plan to be at the Clinic at your scheduled time.

Potential side effects can include, pain, mild bleeding and rarely infections. It can be tolerated since the impulses used are not very strong and the needle is small. The test causes some discomfort and pain. The EMG/NCS test will help to determine whether you suffer a neuromuscular condition such as a pinched nerve, neuropathy, carpal tunnel syndrome or a muscular disease.

Both components of the test will take about 45 to 60 minutes to complete. A small sterile needle electrode is inserted into selected muscles. The second part of the test is the EMG (electromyogram) used to study the muscles. The doctor studies the nature of the responses and the speed with which the conduction is taking place. Several nerves in each limb may be tested using small electric shocks at different sites along the course of the nerves. The first part is the NCS which helps to assess the function of your nerves. This is used to diagnose symptoms of numbness, tingling, pain weakness related nerve and muscle disorders.

Is the emg test for carpal tunnel painful