lihassähkökäyrän

A lihassähkökäyrä, often referred to as an electromyogram (EMG) in English, is a medical test used to evaluate the electrical activity produced by skeletal muscles. It measures the electrical potential generated by muscle fibers when they are stimulated by motor neurons. This process is key to understanding muscle function and diagnosing various neuromuscular disorders.

During an EMG test, a healthcare professional inserts fine needle electrodes into the muscle being examined. These electrodes detect the tiny electrical signals produced as the muscle contracts and relaxes. These signals are then amplified and displayed on a monitor as a series of waveforms, creating the "lihassähkökäyrä." The pattern, amplitude, and frequency of these waveforms provide valuable information about the health and function of the muscle and the nerves controlling it.

Abnormalities in the lihassähkökäyrä can indicate a range of conditions. For instance, increased or irregular electrical activity might suggest muscle damage or inflammation. Conversely, reduced or absent electrical signals could point to nerve damage, muscle weakness, or a problem with the transmission of nerve impulses to the muscle. Common conditions diagnosed or investigated using EMG include carpal tunnel syndrome, peripheral neuropathy, muscular dystrophy, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The test is generally safe, though some temporary discomfort may be experienced at the electrode insertion sites.