EMG NERVE TEST OF THE ARM
An EMG and nerve conduction study of the arm checks whether a nerve is pinched at the neck, trapped at the elbow or wrist, or both. A physician runs the test and writes the report. It takes 30 to 60 minutes, and the only preparation is loose sleeves and no lotion on your arms.
Your physician asks for this test only when the result could change how we treat your neck. You only have it when it is ordered for you.
Why would my physician order it?
A weak grip and numb, tingling fingers can begin at three places: the neck, the elbow or the wrist. The treatment is different for each. Our page on EMG and nerve conduction studies explains what the results mean and why a normal study does not always close the question. This page covers the practical side: getting ready, the visit, and how the result shapes your physiotherapy plan.
It is most useful when the story is mixed, as in carpal tunnel or neck and double crush syndrome.
What does it feel like?
First, small pads on the skin send quick electrical taps along the nerve; each one is a brief snap. Next, the physician places a fine needle into a handful of muscles, a pinch that passes quickly. Afterward you can return to your normal day.
How do you get ready?
Wear a shirt with loose sleeves. Skip lotion on your arms that morning. If your symptoms started only days ago, your physician may time the test a little later so the result is more reliable.
What happens with the results?
A pinched nerve root in the neck points the plan toward neck decompression and the neck exercises. A nerve trapped at the wrist points toward a wrist brace and care for the wrist. Many people need some of both.
What should you tell us first?
- Blood thinners, a pacemaker, or swelling or a skin problem on the arm being tested: let us know ahead of time
How long does it take?
About 30 to 60 minutes.
What to remember
- It pinpoints which nerve is in trouble, where, and how much.
- Skip lotion on both arms that morning.
- Mention blood thinners or a pacemaker in advance.
Show us you have it: Picture the morning of the test and tell us how you will prepare. At your next visit we go over it again, and we are glad to repeat any step you want to see twice.
Other tests your physician may order
- VNG Test for Dizziness After a Neck Injury
- Cognivue Memory and Thinking Test After Whiplash
- Kinetisense 3D Motion Test for Neck Range of Motion
- CMAT Test: Blood Flow, Nerve and Metabolic Check
- RQ Resting Metabolic Rate Test
This is one part of our physiotherapy program for neck pain. Every treatment here is ordered and overseen by a physician who has examined your neck, and none begins until a physician is on site and ready to step in at once.
Ask whether this test belongs in your workup
Your physician orders tests only when the answer would change your plan. We schedule it and follow it until the report is in.
12174 Natural Bridge Rd, Suite 302
St. Louis, MO 63044
Next to DePaul Hospital, just off the 270 and 70 junction, west of the airport.