Electromyogram (EMG)

Find out how EMG can be used to test the function of your peripheral muscles by monitoring their electrical activity

Enquiries & Appointments

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What is an EMG test?

Electromyography (EMG) is a neurophysiology test used to measure and record electrical activity in the muscle when both relaxed and contracted. It can be used to detect symptoms of the following:

 

Need to know

You will be asked to lie down or sit on a chair, depending on the area being tested. A thin, one-use electrode needle is inserted into the muscle. The needle contains a wire that is attached to a measuring monitor. You'll be asked to tighten then relax the muscle. The electrical activity is recorded on the monitor.

The electrode may be moved several times to ensure the activity is accurately recorded. The test lasts for about an hour and you may feel a repetitive tapping or tingling sensation. When the test is done, any electrodes are removed and the area will be cleaned.

For the test you should remove any jewellery, as this will make it easier to attach the electrodes. You should also wear a top with short sleeves and a skirt or loose trousers. Avoid using any skin creams before the test.

You may eat and drink normally beforehand, and it might also be helpful to bring a list of your current medications with you.

The area where the needle is inserted may be a little sore. You may feel a numbness or slight tingling in your muscles for one to two hours after the test. If swelling persists, or there's an increase in pain, you should contact your consultant.

Our EMG  consultants

Dr. Kit Wu

Dr. Kit Wu

Neurology

Dr Kevin Shields

Dr Kevin Shields

Neurology

Dr. Stylianos Arseniou

Dr. Stylianos Arseniou

Neurology

Dr Alidz Pambakian

Dr Alidz Pambakian

Neurology

Our EMG  locations

The Lister Hospital

The Lister Hospital

Chelsea Bridge Road, SW1W 8RH London
The Christie Private Care

The Christie Private Care

Wilmslow Road M20 4BX Manchester
The Wellington Hospital

The Wellington Hospital

8A Wellington Place NW8 9LE London
The Wilmslow Hospital

The Wilmslow Hospital

52-54 Alderley Road SK9 1NY Wilmslow
London Bridge Hospital

London Bridge Hospital

27 Tooley Street SE1 2PR London
The Harley Street Clinic

The Harley Street Clinic

35 Weymouth Street W1G 8BJ London
The Princess Grace Hospital

The Princess Grace Hospital

42-52 Nottingham Place W1U 5NY London
The Shard Outpatients

The Shard Outpatients

The Shard, 32 St Thomas Street SE1 9BS London
Chiswick Outpatients

Chiswick Outpatients

Bond House 347-353 Chiswick High Road W4 4HS London
Chelsea Outpatients

Chelsea Outpatients

280 King's Road SW3 5AW London
Elstree Waterfront Outpatients

Elstree Waterfront Outpatients

Beaufort House WD6 3BS Elstree
The Wellington Hospital Outpatients

The Wellington Hospital Outpatients

15 - 17 Lodge Road NW8 7JA London