I have to have an EMG ..... i have been diagnosed with MS by 2 neuro's but why would they want and EMG now??? Cn someone describe this test to me and why they use it???

[nancihelp373]

My neuro called from JH and wants an EMG done. Does anyone know what he is looking for at this point? Is the test long and painful ???? OUCH

Thanks for any info

nanci

[LisaJF]

I swear my EMG didn't bother me at all way back when in 2007.  I wouldn't go getting yourself all worked up over it and just go in and see how it goes.  If you anticipate "pain" and "uncomfortableness" then you're going to go in with stiff muscles.  Try to deep breathe and relax, that will loosen up your muscles, therefore, help you through the test.  

As far as the MRI goes, you can request Valium or Xanax to sedate you as long as you have someone driving you to and from the test.  I hate to brag, but I normally fall asleep during the entire thing (from brain, cspine and tspine). Heh.  Everyone is different.

Just remember, there's always a solution.

You will do fine I know it!

[Lulu54]

hey nancihelp,
the emg will help them sort out if the problems are in your central nervous system (CNS) or your peripheral nervous system.  My emg was wonky because I have problems with both.  

The test can be uncomfortable, but not unbearably so.  

As for the spinal MRI and claustrophobia - ask your doctor for a sedative such as valium to help you to relax just enough.  When you are in there, you might consider just closing your ideas and visualize yourself being someplace els.

good luck,
Lulu

[RedFlame]

No, it won't change your diagnosis.  They probably want a baseline like Julie said.  Remember that some of that time the doctor will be taking lots of measurements too.  So, it won't be 90 minutes of the probe part.

It will be OK.  Try to breathe through it and relax.  I know it's hard.

Hugs,

Lois

[nancihelp373]

Thanks
Something like this would not change the diagnosis if already made right? He clearly made the final diagnosis. he also wants a spine MRI. I have never had one of those only the brain. With a spine MRI and I completely in the capsule for the test. I am so clostraphobic .( or however it's spelled ...lol).
Thanks for all your help and encouragement . Soon i hope I can help others once i get myself squared away.

[jujuminx]

They probably want it for a baseline.

It will be okay.  As you are laying there on the table, think about all the people who need test like this but are unable to get them.  I know it's frightening and this is all so new to you, but it will all be okay.

Julie

[nancihelp373]

Thank You , they said it would take 90 minutes ,,,, UGH. Oh well, if it needs to be done then so be it. Thank you for your input

Nanci
I hope you are feeling well

[RedFlame]

The test is to determine how your nerves are responding or not responding and where there may be damage.  There are different parts to a single nerve, so they test to see what part of the nerve could be damaged.

I had one a year or so ago.  What they do is take precise measurements in your arms and legs to make sure they record the data correctly.  THen they insert a tiny probe (needle) into your leg or arm one at a time.  WHen the machine registers it makes a noise and they know your nerve is healthy.  It is uncomfortable but not terribly so.

Try not to be afraid.  THe test doesn't las that long and you can barely feel the needle.

It's not fun for sure but mine didn't last too long

Hope yours isn't too bad

Red