Practical Electromyography

Electromyography in musculoskeletal pain: A reappraisal and practical considerations

BACKGROUND Patients with musculoskeletal pain (MSP) and local tenderness in the back and extremities are frequently referred to electromyography (EMG) laboratory to assess the integrity of the spinal nerve roots, peripheral nerves, and skeletal muscles. When focal muscle weakness and anatomical sensory deficits are clinically evident, this procedure is almost always abnormal. In some situations...

Electromyography Fundamentals

Needle electromyography.

Physiologic assessment of diseases of the motor unit from the anterior horn cells to the muscles relies on a combination of needle electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies (NCS). Both require a unique combination of knowledge of peripheral nervous system anatomy, physiology, pathophysiology, diseases, techniques, and electricity is necessary. Successful, high-quality, reproducible EM...

Electromyography in Myofascial Syndrome

Myofascial syndrome is a muscular pain syndrome with regional symptoms, often in limb girdle or neck and back area. It is common and causes much disability and inability to work. Myofascial pain may be activated by precision work, repetitive strain or recent injury. Typical findings in symptomatic muscles are taut bands and painful trigger points (TrPs), where pressure elicites a typical spread...

Electromyography and Facial Paralysis

The facial motor system is responsible for functions critical to physical, social and psychological well-being (VanSwearingen & Brach, 1996). Facial nerve paralysis is a lifealtering clinical condition, with functional, aesthetic and communication implications for the individuals who are afflicted (Hadlock, 2008). It differs from most other clinical conditions in that it is the end result of a ...