What to Expect During Your EMG Test

Preparing for a medical test can feel overwhelming, especially if it involves unfamiliar equipment or procedures. Knowing what to expect ahead of time can ease nerves and ensure a smoother, more accurate experience.

At OAA Orthopedic Specialists, we provide expert EMG and nerve conduction studies at our Lehighton location and across the Lehigh Valley. Our team is here to walk you through each step—from preparation to post-test care—so you can approach your appointment with confidence. To schedule your EMG test in Lehighton, call us at 610-973-6200 or request an appointment online.

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Here’s what you should know before your upcoming EMG appointment—including how to prepare and what to expect.

What an EMG Test Entails and Why It's Done

An EMG test measures muscle response and electrical activity in skeletal muscles, both at rest and during contraction. It is often combined with a nerve conduction study, which evaluates how quickly and effectively electrical signals move through your peripheral nerves. This combined approach helps detect nerve damage or muscle disease and pinpoints the cause of symptoms like muscle weakness, tingling, or pain.

EMG testing helps diagnose a wide range of conditions, including:

Carpal tunnel syndrome
Peripheral neuropathy
Radiculopathy
Muscular dystrophy
Motor neuron diseases

How to Prepare for Your EMG Test

Proper preparation helps ensure accurate test results and a more comfortable experience. Below are key guidelines to follow before your appointment:

1. Clothing

Wear loose, comfortable clothing that allows easy access to the arms or legs. You may be asked to change into a gown depending on the test site.
Avoid applying lotions, creams, or oils on the day of your test, as these substances can interfere with electrode placement and signal accuracy.

2. Medications

Continue your usual medications, unless your physician advises otherwise.
Inform your provider if you’re taking blood thinners (such as warfarin, Plavix, or aspirin), as this may affect how the needle electrodes are used during the EMG.
Be sure to notify us if you have a pacemaker or any implanted electrical medical device so we can adjust the procedure safely.

3. Diet and Hydration

There are no dietary restrictions before your EMG. A light meal beforehand is recommended, especially if you’re feeling anxious or prone to lightheadedness.
Stay well-hydrated leading up to the appointment. Good hydration can improve circulation and may help reduce mild muscle soreness after the test.

If you have any questions about your medications or how to prepare, don’t hesitate to call our team before your scheduled visit. We’re here to make your EMG testing experience as smooth and informative as possible.

What to Expect During the Procedure

An EMG test is typically divided into two components: the nerve conduction study and the needle EMG. Together, these evaluations take about 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the number of areas tested and the complexity of your symptoms.

Nerve Conduction Study

Small surface electrodes are placed on your skin over the nerves and muscles being tested.
A mild electrical stimulation is applied to assess how quickly and efficiently your nerves conduct signals—this is known as nerve conduction velocity.
You may feel a light tapping or twitching sensation as the electrical signals are delivered.

Needle Electrode Exam (Needle EMG)

A thin, sterile needle electrode is inserted into specific muscles to measure electrical activity at rest and during gentle muscle contractions.
Some patients describe this portion as a pinch, cramp, or pressure-like discomfort, but most find it manageable and short in duration.
Your provider will observe the electrical activity generated by your muscles and interpret the patterns to determine whether the issue originates from the nerve, muscle tissue, or nerve-muscle connection.

The test does not require anesthesia, and you will be able to return home immediately after the procedure.

Tips for Managing Test-Related Discomfort

While EMG testing is generally well-tolerated, some patients may experience brief discomfort, particularly during the needle portion of the exam. These strategies can help you feel more at ease before, during, and after the procedure:

Speak Up About Anxiety: If you’re feeling nervous or uncertain, let your provider know. We’re here to explain each step, answer questions, and ensure you’re as comfortable as possible throughout your visit.
Use Deep Breathing Techniques: Practicing slow, steady breathing during the needle insertion can help relax your muscles and reduce tension-related discomfort.
Stay Still but Relaxed: Keeping the targeted muscle relaxed until asked to contract can make the process smoother and less uncomfortable.
Post-Test Soreness Is Normal: You may feel mild muscle soreness or tenderness where the needle electrodes were placed. This typically fades within 24 to 48 hours.
Apply a Warm Compress: Using a warm (not hot) compress on sore areas may help soothe any lingering muscle tightness.
Consider Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: Medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can ease minor discomfort—but always consult your doctor first, especially if you’re taking blood thinners or other prescription medications.
Avoid Strenuous Activity Afterward: Give your muscles time to rest, especially if multiple areas were tested. Gentle movement or stretching is usually fine, unless advised otherwise.

If you have lingering discomfort or questions after your EMG, don’t hesitate to contact our team. We’re here to support your recovery and make sure you feel confident moving forward with your care.

Post-Test Care and What Happens Next

After your EMG and nerve conduction study, you can typically return to your regular routine without any downtime. Most patients experience little to no disruption following the procedure.

However, here’s what to expect:

Resuming Activities: You may go back to work, drive, and continue with your usual activities unless your provider advises otherwise.
Mild Muscle Soreness: It’s normal to experience slight muscle soreness or tenderness at the needle insertion sites. This discomfort is typically minor and resolves within 24 to 48 hours. Applying a warm compress can help ease tightness or irritation.
Test Review and Results: Your EMG results will be thoroughly reviewed by a physician trained in electrodiagnostic interpretation. They will assess:
- The speed and strength of electrical signals
- The response and function of your muscle tissue
- Patterns of nerve and muscle interaction during electrical stimulation
Next Steps in Your Care Plan: A follow-up appointment will be scheduled to go over your results. Your provider will explain the findings clearly and outline any next steps, which may include:
- Additional imaging or blood work
- A physical therapy referral
- Neurology consultation
- Targeted treatment for your diagnosed condition

At OAA, we use EMG testing not just to find answers but to create a care plan tailored to your needs and goals. If you have any post-test concerns, our team is here to help.

Why Choose OAA for EMG Testing in Lehighton?

At OAA, we offer expert EMG testing across the Lehigh Valley, including Lehighton, Allentown, Bethlehem, and New Tripoli. Our board-certified physicians use advanced equipment to deliver precise diagnoses and patient-centered care.

Here’s what makes OAA a trusted choice:

Experienced Physicians: Your EMG nerve test is performed and interpreted by specialists in neuromuscular disorders.
Comprehensive Services: We evaluate nerve and muscle function with the latest diagnostic tools, helping uncover the root cause of symptoms.
Convenient Locations: Our Lehighton office makes EMG testing more accessible for patients in Carbon County and surrounding communities.
Coordinated Care: We work closely with your referring provider and streamline communication so you can begin treatment without delay.

Whether you’re dealing with unexplained muscle weakness, persistent tingling, or possible nerve damage, our team is here to help.

Schedule EMG Testing in Lehighton, PA with OAA

Preparing for your EMG test is the first step toward an accurate diagnosis and a personalised care plan. At OAA Orthopedic Specialists, we’re committed to helping you find clarity and comfort throughout the process.

Call us at 610-973-6200 or request your appointment online to schedule your EMG test in Lehighton or at one of our nearby locations.