Hello~My husband had one, I will be honest, for him, it was very painful and there were times when he actually had tears in his eyes, but everyone is different. I understand that most handle ti well and don't need pain meds.
EMG testing usually takes anywhere from 30 to 90 minutes, depending on the condition being tested and findings of the study. A report that includes the results and an interpretation will be sent to your doctor.
EMG testing is extremely safe, but talk with your doctor if you take blood thinners, have a pacemaker or implanted defibrillator before having the test. No special preparation is needed for people who have a hip, knee or other joint replacement prosthesis.
If you are taking anticoagulation medications (blood thinners) or have a pacemaker or implanted defibrillator, you should notify their doctor before having the test. In general, these conditions will not create any complications and you can have an EMG test safely.
Unlike preparing for dental procedures or certain types of surgeries by taking antibiotics, no special preparation is necessary in those patients who have a joint replacement or other artificial implant in their body.
You should take any medications your normally take on the day of the test.
An EMG test is very safe. EMG needles are used for only one patient, are not recycled, and are immediately disposed of following use.
What are the side effects of EMG testing?
Side effects of an EMG test may include some muscle soreness, but this rarely lasts more than an hour or two after the exam.