Electrodiagnostic tests are performed to
analyze the electric waveforms of nerves and muscles that help in
identifying possible injuries and detecting nerve abnormalities causing
back pain. Electrodiagnostic tests are helpful in determining the real
significance of any abnormal structural finding on a MRI scan as a cause
of back pain. The most commonly performed Electrodiagnostic tests are:
Nerve Conduction Studies: These studies help
in monitoring the electrical functioning muscles and nerves. For
performing nerve conduction studies, surface electrodes are attached
to the skin. The time taken by impulse to travel to another electrode
is measured by applying small electric shocks. Nerve conduction
studies can confirm compression of the nerve caused by herniated disc
or narrowing of your spinal stenosis. This test is also used to
diagnose peripheral nerve disorders like carpal tunnel syndrome.
Electromography (EMG): In electromyography a fine sterile, wire
electrode is briefly inserted in to a muscle and the electrical
activity is shown on a viewing screen. This is generally performed
when the other tests indicate the condition to be aggressive
increasing the risk of a significant injury. This procedure is quite a
painful one. The main aim of this test is to measure the electrical
discharges produced in the muscles. EMG can be recommended by your
doctor in case of weakness and numbness in the affected area. EMG
helps in evaluating and diagnosing nerve and muscle disorders like:
-
Muscle dystrophy and other muscular disorders
- Peripheral
neuropathy
- Compression of nerve root
-Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
These studies are different from other studies as these studies look at
function. For example, if you take a picture of a person you would be
able to tell how tall he is or whats the color of his hair but you would
not be able to determine whether he has high blood pressure or other
disease as they are test functions. Similarly these studies are also a
test of function which look at determining as to how well a nerve works.
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