EMG Results

[jibjen]

Good Moning,

I am from limboland and posted this question without any response. I was wondering if you mind me posting it here and if anyone has any input. I wanted to ask everyone if they have had experiences  or know  a little bit about what EMG's are used for and what a normal result means or rules out.

My current issue has been pain in legs with burning sensations and can hardly stand up and walk, although it seemed worse when we had a heatwave last week, I am a little better. I have a tough time sleeping as my legs are sore and continue to burn.....like a bad sunburn on my legs and overall weakness....

I know basically they test for nerve damage... The way I was explained is that my EMG is normal..I was referred to a chiro for burning in between shoulders and after an x-ray it shows scoliosis of spine. He also sent me for MRI as x-ray was concerning and asked if i had an infection??? I did not think so..He has been adjusting me for over 2 months.


I called my chiro Monday to see if he felt it was connected to back issue and he told me to come in. He adjusted me but can not say I have any releif..I'm not getting worse but not much better..I am wondering if the heat contributed..Is this a coincidence? (I have an Appt. Aug 5th with neuro)

The chiro explained to me that that he got the results from m neuro on EMG done in October and it was normal and that it is good as it shows no nerve entrapment. So why am i experiencing this? I have no nerve entrapment apparently that would cause it and my MRI stated although i have a slight protrusion on right but no nerve issues in lumbar spine.It showed a diminished T2 hyperintensitiy. The MRI basically stated otherwise  negative....

I have no back pain with this...

My question is what does an EMG rule out?? or rule in? My past brain MRI's suggested MS should be in differential.

Any input would be great.
JibJen

[jibjen]

Thanks everyone,

twopack - My chiropractor ordered the MRI after doing an x-ray. Just the lumbar spine
My neurologist had done the EMG last October as well as an MRI of brain w/out contrast.That showed quite a few T2's in brain...The chiro keeps saying..no MRI or Needles just yet..I am assuming he mean LP..I have an appt.  with Neuro next week so we will see what he says. The heat has subsided a bit where I am so i a glad..It knocks me off my feet...I always loved the heat and could tolerate it but it does a number on me now.

sumanadevil - Thanks a bunch..As i said I go to neuro next wek. Last appt. he said he would do another MRI in Fall hopefully he will do brain and spine

RedFlame - how are you...Thanks for the info..It does stink waiting for any diagnosis..It's expensive too ;o)

Thanks for your supprort and fedback..I will discuss another referral for a diff doc with my neuro next week..

Be Well everyone!
Jibs

[RedFlame]

Hi jibjen,  The EMG test rules out any motor neuron disease.  

Like everyone above has stated, it measures peripheral nerves and damage.  I know it's really hard to be in limbo.  It's so hard to wait.  There isn't anything I can say to make that better except keep coming back here for support.  

I don't know how your question went un-noticed.  Sometimes the weekends are very slow, also if someone else is in crisis---that can really take the board over too.  

((((Hugs))))

Red

[Sumanadevii]

Sounds like my history from start to finish.  My advise?  Find a neurologist at a major medical center.  Get an MRI of both your brain and spine.  Don't stop until it is done.

[twopack]

I have seen chiropractic and accupuncture/accupressure treatment work wonders on animals, especially horses so I do believe there are benefits.  I also believe chiropractors who are skilled at human treatment are few and far between.  ANY therapy that hasn't worked over a period of time needs give way to something else.

Did your neuro order the MRI and EMG?  An EMG will detect peripheral nerve damage.  The MRI may detect cord lesions or bone changes and narrowing of pathways the nerve roots pass through.

Heat slows nerve conduction so will make any problems with nerves seem worse.

I too think you need to see the neurologist or an orthopedic doctor who specializes in back problems.  If they can't pinpoint a treatable problem with you back, they may opt to refer you to a pain management specialist.  These doctor are specialists in anesthesia and sometimes will recommend and perform procedures that can offer short or long term pain relief that doesn't involve repeated strong pain medications.

[jensequitur]

No problem - good luck!

[jibjen]

Thank you,

I  can not say i have had significant releif from him and I have been going since May..I actually went tonight and feel the very same way I have been feeling..same symptoms..I think your recommendations are worth looking into with a doctor..

Thanks for your time

[jensequitur]

I personally believe that the relief people get from chiropracty is a placebo effect.  For actual medical problems as you describe, you're going to need a doctor that's trained in treating disorders of the spine.

[jibjen]

Thank You..I appreciate the suggestion..Honestly the chiro has not made a significant difference for me..

Have a good Day
Jibs

[Inny2009]

a chiropractor is alright for realignment and suggestions however if you have a possible medical condition a doctor is always the best way to go. I dont know what kind of schooling a chiropractor gets but im going to assume they can do the basics..maybe alittle bit above the basics but for serious stuff...yea just go to the doctor.

You can still go to your chiropractor though, no worries! I mean they do some really good work for people who need it. But its always better to be safe than sorry!

Inny

[jibjen]

Thank You,

I just assumed a chiropractor is the one I needed for all this stuff...

Jibs

[Inny2009]

a regular doctor would be good. An orthopedic doctor does bones..and does do treatment on spinal issues...ull prob need a referral unless ur insurance says otherwise. If you need a referral i would go to a regular family doctor and see what he/she says. Good luck and keep us posted!

Inny

[jibjen]

Hello,

Thank You for your feedback. May I ask about your mention of a reg doc instead of chiro?

Jibs

[jensequitur]

An EMG checks for nerve conduction.  If your EMG test was normal, you have normal nerve conduction.

I would go to see a doctor about your back problems, rather than a chiropractor.  Your scoliosis is causing compression of your spinal cord, and creating your burning sensations and pain.

Just my opinion....