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Patient Education

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Electromyogram

An electromyogram (EMG) is a test that measures the electrical activity of your muscles. It can determine whether muscle weakness or paralysis is due to a nerve problem or to a problem with the muscle itself.

During an electromyogram, a thin needle is placed in a muscle to measure its electrical activity at rest and during use. The needle is attached to a machine with a viewing screen that displays electrical activity in the muscles as waves on the screen.

Current as of: December 20, 2023

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

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