Electromyography (EMG) is a specialised diagnostic procedure used to evaluate the health and function of muscles and the nerves controlling them. EMG helps identify neuromuscular disorders by measuring the electrical activity produced by skeletal muscles, providing crucial information about muscle response, nerve conduction, and the integrity of the neuromuscular junction. It is widely used in the diagnosis of conditions such as peripheral neuropathies, radiculopathies, myopathies, muscular dystrophies, carpal tunnel syndrome, and other nerve or muscle disorders.

The EMG procedure involves inserting fine needle electrodes into the targeted muscle to record electrical signals at rest and during voluntary contraction. These signals are displayed on a monitor and analysed by a trained neurologist or neurophysiologist. The test helps distinguish between muscle disorders, nerve disorders, and conditions affecting the connection between nerves and muscles. Surface electrodes may also be used for non-invasive studies in specific situations.

EMG is often performed in conjunction with Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS) to provide a comprehensive assessment of the peripheral nervous system. While NCS evaluates the speed and strength of electrical signals travelling through nerves, EMG focuses on the electrical activity within muscles themselves. This combination enhances diagnostic accuracy and aids in localising the site of pathology.

The procedure is generally safe, though patients may experience mild discomfort or temporary soreness at the electrode insertion sites. Proper patient preparation and skilled execution are critical to obtaining reliable results. Findings from EMG inform treatment planning, including medical therapy, physiotherapy, or surgical interventions, depending on the underlying condition. By providing a precise assessment of neuromuscular function, EMG is an invaluable tool in neurology, orthopaedics, and rehabilitation medicine. It enables early diagnosis, guides therapeutic decisions, and helps monitor disease progression, ultimately improving patient outcomes and quality of life.