EMG Test

An electromyography (EMG) test measures muscle response and is used to assess the health of muscles and nerve cells. It can provide our specialists with valuable information that can help explain why you might be experiencing tingling, numbness or muscle weakness.

Performed in WakeMed’s state-of-the-art neurodiagnostic lab, our experts use this diagnostic tool to confirm or rule out conditions such as muscular dystrophy, polymyositis, myasthenia gravis, carpal tunnel syndrome, peripheral neuropathy, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, polio and herniated disk.

Our WakeMed neurodiagnostic experts are leaders in providing compassionate, patient-focused care. Through comprehensive testing, we focus on giving you answers and guiding you through the process of diagnosis and treatment.

What to Expect from an EMG Test

During an EMG test, the physician inserts a tiny needle electrode into the patient’s muscle that is suspected of causing the problem. The physician will then ask the patient to contract and release the muscle several times to test the area.

The electrode sends signals to contract the muscle and records the response, using a numerical value to show functionality. Often, this test is performed in conjunction with an NCV test .

Generally, the test takes under 30 minutes. The needle electrode can cause minor discomfort, but any pain usually ends once the needle is removed. Patients may also experience minor bruising where the needles were inserted.

How to Find Us

Our testing is performed in our three WakeMed Neurodiagnostic Labs.

• Raleigh Campus, which is located on the 1^st floor of the Medical Office Building
• Cary Hospital, 1900 Kildaire Farm Road, Cary, NC 27518, located in the Cardiopulmonary testing area

More Information and Referrals

We welcome new patients. If you’d like to receive more information about EMG testing at WakeMed, please call us at 919-350-3734. If you are a physician referring a patient, please call us at 919-350-7000.

Raleigh

1. At Outpatient Registration, turn right and follow the hall to the first intersection.
2. Turn right and walk towards Mental Health and Well-Being.
3. Look to the left for the elevators, and at the end of the elevator hallway, you will locate the “Neurodiagnostics” door sign.

Cary

1. At Outpatient Registration, veer to the left towards Same Day Surgery. Continue left and follow the hall to the first intersection.
2. Turn right and walk towards the Cardiopulmonary department.
3. Neurodiagnostics is located in the Cardiopulmonary testing area.