Nerve and muscle dysfunctions need a quick remedy. This is something that can lead to muscle-and-nerve transmission problems. Electromyography (EMG) helps reveal these underlying problems. This diagnostic procedure helps correctly assess the muscles and the individual nerve cells offering control (motor neurons). In Germantown, Maryland, centers are offering EMG procedures. Consider looking for the best as the experts will do a comprehensive procedure. Book an appointment with top-notch specialists in EMG in Germantown. As you plan for the visit, there are some general aspects you need to understand.
When Should You Consider EMG?
The procedure is very relevant if a doctor detects a muscle-nerve disorder. A specialist will try to see whether there is an optimal transmission of information between the muscles and nerves. Through the procedure, it’s, therefore, possible to diagnose neuromuscular disorders. However, much focus goes to the symptoms you’re experiencing.
For instance, they look for tingling, numbness, and weakness of muscles. They also see if you have been experiencing any pain within specific muscles constantly. If you have some unique limb pain that could start and quickly escalate, then you could need the procedure in determining any muscle-nerve disorder.
How Safe is the Procedure?
Knowing the key aspects that guide the procedure’s significance, you may want to see if it’s a risk-free process. The truth is, there are few complications and risks associated with it. These days, technology is making most of these treatments move from the invasive nature. This is through relatively more minor surgical instruments; hence, bleeding and infection rates tend to be below. A competent team will plan for the whole process well such that there will be minimal complications.
However, they also prepare you well before the actual day of the electromyography. They, for instance, hold a pre-treatment meeting with you through which they deliberate everything. For example, you get guidance on the right foods to take and medications to refrain from. For instance, when taking some OTC drugs such as pyridostigmine, they may advise you to avoid them before the exam.
The neurologist or nervous system specialist conducting the electromyography will want to know if there are other medical conditions you’re experiencing. They will ascertain if you use heart pacemakers, use blood-thinning medication, or if you have hemophilia. It helps in making the treatment safer.
Expectations During and After the Treatment
During the study, the medic will use tiny electrodes which will transmit minute electrical currents. You may feel them in the form of a spasm or cramp. Since the needle electrode may sometimes cause discomfort, the specialist may use general anesthesia to deal with it. The doctor will then read any spontaneous electrical activity as your muscle rests. After the procedure, it’s common to experience some temporal bruising at the point of contact between the needle electrode and the muscle. However, this will varnish within a few days.
Electromyography is an essential diagnostic procedure that helps in determining if you have an underlying neuromuscular disorder. It’s a safe procedure, and afterward, chances of complications are minimal. However, a specialist has to evaluate your medical health before proceeding with the process properly.