elektromyográfia

Elektromyografia, often abbreviated as EMG, is a diagnostic technique used to evaluate the health of muscles and the nerve cells that control them. These nerve cells, known as motor neurons, transmit electrical signals from the brain and spinal cord to the muscles, causing them to contract. EMG can detect abnormalities in these signals.

The procedure typically involves two parts: nerve conduction studies (NCS) and needle EMG. During NCS, small electrodes are placed on the skin to deliver a mild electrical impulse and measure how quickly and strongly the nerves conduct signals. This helps identify nerve damage or compression.

For the needle EMG portion, a fine needle electrode is inserted directly into a muscle. This electrode records the electrical activity produced by the muscle fibers when they are at rest and when they are activated by voluntary contraction. Abnormal patterns of electrical activity can indicate muscle diseases like muscular dystrophy or myasthenia gravis, or nerve disorders affecting the muscles.

EMG is a valuable tool for diagnosing a wide range of neuromuscular conditions, including carpal tunnel syndrome, herniated discs, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), and peripheral neuropathy. It helps pinpoint the location and severity of nerve or muscle dysfunction, guiding appropriate treatment strategies. The procedure is generally safe, though some patients may experience temporary discomfort or bruising at the electrode insertion sites.