EMNG leg

What is electroneuromyography (ENMG)?
Electroneuromyography (ENMG) is a diagnostic procedure used to assess the peripheral nervous system, which includes the activity of muscles and the nerves that control them; more precisely, the electrical activity of muscles and nerves is examined and recorded. The ENMG test can provide your doctor with specific information about the extent of nerve and/or muscle injury, and it can also determine the exact location of the injury and give some indications as to whether the damage is reversible. The ENMG examination consists of nerve conduction testing (electroneurography) and muscle testing (electromyography).

When is ENMG of the legs used?
ENMG is used to assess muscle and nerve activity in the diagnosis of herniated intervertebral discs, nerve injuries (nerve paralysis, traffic accidents, injuries, postoperative conditions, etc.), in diseases that affect nerves and lead to their dysfunction (diabetes, kidney diseases, etc.), and in the diagnosis of spinal cord diseases (ALS, polio, etc.). ENMG is also used to confirm or rule out certain conditions such as muscle disorders, diseases affecting the connection between nerve and muscle, peripheral nerve disorders, disorders affecting motor neurons in the brain or spinal cord, disorders affecting the nerve root (disc herniation), etc.

What can you expect during ENMG?
The doctor or technician places surface electrodes at various points on the skin of your legs or inserts thin needles into the muscles, depending on where you have symptoms. The electrodes will sometimes deliver a small electrical pulse that may be felt as a twitch or cramp. The doctors will assess whether there is any spontaneous electrical activity when the muscle is at rest and the degree of activity when the muscle is loaded, i.e. contracts. An ENMG examination usually lasts from 30 to 90 minutes, depending on the area being tested.

What happens after ENMG?
Temporary, minor bruising may occur where the electrode was placed. The bruises should fade within a few days. If the bruise persists, contact your primary healthcare physician.

How to prepare for an ENMG examination?
Be sure to bring all medical documentation (medical history) related to the examination you are undergoing. Inform the doctor performing the ENMG if you have a pacemaker or any other electrical medical device implanted, if you use blood thinners, or if you have hemophilia or a clotting disorder. Shower before the examination to remove oils from the skin. Do not apply lotions or creams before the test. If additional instructions are needed, you will receive them when scheduling the appointment.