Electromyogram tests are a remarkable way of diagnosing various nerve disorders, including peripheral neuropathy and carpal tunnel syndrome. A doctor can order an EMG test if the patient has symptoms of a neurological or muscular condition, such as unexplained weakness or numbness in the limbs. For a better muscular or nerve problems diagnosis, consider New Jersey EMG tests today.
Conditions diagnosed with EMG
- Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS)
CTS usually affects the median nerve running through the wrist. The nerve gets pinched, causing tingling, numbness, and burning in the fingers and hands. Carpal tunnel syndrome is caused by a compression of the tendons in the wrist and median nerve. Exercises and anti-inflammatory drugs can relieve the symptoms. Doctors typically recommend surgery for symptoms occurring for more than six months.
- Charcot-Marie-Tooth Disease (CMT)
CMT disease is a neurological disorder that is inherited. It affects the sensory and motor nerves in the limbs. This disorder causes muscle weakness in the feet and legs, foot deformities, loss of feeling in the feet and legs, and gait problems. It can also affect the hands and arms at a later stage. Gene mutations mainly cause CMT, and it has no cure. Occupational therapy, orthopedic devices, physical therapy, can help in managing disabilities.
- Lambert-Eaton Syndrome
Lambert-Eaton syndrome is a communication disorder between muscles and nerves. It causes weakness and fatigue. It primarily affects the limbs and can also cause problems with speaking, breathing, and swallowing. Lambert-Eaton syndrome occurs mainly in cancer patients, especially those with lung cancer. It has no cure. Treatment emphasizes treating any existing cancer and managing symptoms with the proper medications.
- Myasthenia gravis
MG is an autoimmune disease weakening the skeletal muscles. MG can improve with rest but worsen during activity. The first noticeable symptom is having a vision problem, but it can also affect talking, breathing, swallowing, and chewing. Many people having MG have an abnormal thymus gland, but the reason is not yet known. Treatments include immune system therapies, medications, and removing the thymus gland.
- Peripheral Neuropathy
Peripheral neuropathy is nerve damage that runs from the spinal cord and brain to all parts of the body. It usually refers to the nerves of the limbs. It is noticed by burning, tingling, numbness, and pain. The leading cause of peripheral neuropathy is diabetes. Other causes include tumors, autoimmune disorders, nutritional deficiencies, and heredity. In most cases, doctors don’t know the specific reason. Treating the existing problems can help with pain, and medications can improve the symptoms.
- Sciatica
Sciatica is pressure or injury on the sciatica nerve, the nerve running from the spine to the back of the legs. It causes pain in the hips, lower back, buttocks, and at times the back of the thighs. Tingling, weakness, burning, and numbness in the legs can also occur. A herniated disc is the most common cause. Many people feel better with medicines and physical therapy, which strengthens the back.
An EMG test is a non-surgical procedure that healthcare providers use to diagnose muscle dysfunction. During the procedure, your doctor inserts needle-shaped electrodes into the muscle, which record the electrical activity of contracted and relaxed muscles. EMG tests give essential information that allows doctors to determine the extent and location of nerve damage and muscle.
