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Electromyography

Description of Service

An EMG (Electromyography) is a test that checks how your muscles and nerves work. Doctors use it to find problems like nerve or muscle disorders, or spinal cord problems. An EMG is often done together with a Nerve Conduction Study.

Who Does the Test:

An EMG is done by a neurologist (a doctor who specializes in nerves and the nervous system). A Nerve Conduction Study is usually done by a technologist.

What Happens During the Tests?
Nerve Conduction Study: Small patches are placed on your skin. Your nerves are given tiny electrical pulses. The test measures how fast your nerves respond.
EMG: A very thin needle is placed into a few muscles. The needle picks up signals from your muscles when you rest and when you move. You may hear sounds or see lines on a screen as your muscles work.

Does It Hurt?
You may feel a quick, mild shock during the nerve test.
The EMG needle may feel like a pinch. Some muscles may feel sore for a short time after.

How Long Does It Take?
Most tests take 30–60 minutes, depending on how many areas are checked.

Specific Services Offered

Electromyography

Preparation for Visit

How Do I Prepare?

  • Wear loose, comfortable clothing.
  • Do not use lotion or cream on your skin the day of the test.
  • Take your regular medicines unless your physician says otherwise.
  • Tell your physician if you are on blood thinners or have a pacemaker.

After the Test

  • You can go home right after.
  • You may have mild soreness where the needle was placed.
  • Your physician will review the results and share them with you in one to two weeks.

Care Team

  • ​Neurologist
  • Technician

Education & Additional Information

Parking: Arrive early; parking can be difficult to find!

Registration: Register at the Cardiopulmonary Desk, 3F, CVH.

Test Duration: Most tests take 30–60 minutes, depending on how many areas are checked.

Results: Your physician will review the results and share them with you in one to two weeks.

Safety: These tests are safe. The electrical pulses and needle used are very small and do not harm your body.
Comfort Tips: You may feel a quick shock during the nerve test and a small pinch during the EMG. Some muscles may feel sore for a short time afterward.

Contact: If you have questions or need to change your appointment, call 905-813-1100 ext. 4082.

Cancellation: We ask that you provide our clinic with 48 hours' notice if you need to cancel or reschedule an appointment. If no notice is provided a 'no show' fee will be charged.

Hours of Operation

Mon-Fri 7:00 am - 3:30 pm

Location

Credit Valley Hospital site
2200 Eglinton Ave. W.
Mississauga, Ontario L5M 2N1

Contact Information

Phone: 905-813-2712
Fax: 905-813-4046.

Referral Process

Appointment booking:
A referral must be faxed to the department prior to appointment scheduling

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