EMG Testing in Civic Center, NY

Get Clear Answers About Your Nerve Pain

Advanced electromyography testing that pinpoints exactly what’s causing your symptoms so you can move forward with confidence.

A healthcare professional attaches electrodes to a patient's fingers and wrist while operating a medical device on a table, possibly for a nerve conduction or electrophysiology test.

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A person wearing blue gloves applies electrodes with wires to a patient's hairy leg, likely for physical therapy or electrical stimulation treatment.

Electromyography Nerve Conduction Testing

Finally Know What's Really Going On

You’ve been dealing with numbness, tingling, or muscle weakness long enough. The uncertainty is exhausting, and you need real answers.

EMG testing gives you those answers. This diagnostic procedure measures the electrical activity in your muscles and nerves, revealing exactly where problems exist and how severe they are. No more guessing about whether your symptoms are serious or wondering if different doctors will give you different opinions.

When the test is complete, you’ll have concrete information about your nerve and muscle function. That means your doctor can create a treatment plan based on facts, not assumptions. You’ll know if you’re dealing with a pinched nerve, muscle disorder, or something that requires immediate attention.

Civic Center Diagnostic Testing Specialists

We've Been Diagnosing Complex Cases for Years

NY Spine Medicine has been serving patients throughout New York City with comprehensive spine and nerve care. We focus specifically on conditions that affect your spine, nerves, and muscles.

Located in Civic Center, our practice is easily accessible whether you’re coming from downtown Manhattan, Brooklyn, or anywhere in the tri-state area. Our physicians don’t just run tests – we interpret results in the context of your specific symptoms and medical history.

You’re not just getting a test. You’re getting answers from specialists who understand how nerve and muscle problems affect your daily life.

A healthcare professional uses a device with electrodes attached to a patient's forearm and fingers to conduct a medical test at a clinic. Both are seated at a table.

EMG Nerve Testing Process

Here's Exactly What Happens During Testing

The EMG test has two parts: nerve conduction study and electromyography. The entire process typically takes 30 to 60 minutes, depending on which nerves and muscles need evaluation.

First comes the nerve conduction study. Small electrodes are placed on your skin, and mild electrical pulses test how well your nerves transmit signals. You’ll feel brief tingling sensations, but nothing painful. This part shows if your nerves are working properly and how fast they conduct electrical signals.

Next is the electromyography portion. A thin needle electrode is inserted into specific muscles to measure electrical activity. Yes, you’ll feel the needle insertion, but most patients describe it as similar to getting a vaccination. The needle detects whether your muscles respond normally to nerve signals.

Throughout the test, you’ll hear sounds from the machine and see wave patterns on a screen. Your doctor explains what they’re seeing in real time, so you understand what the results mean for your condition.

A person receives a medical test on their arm using electrodes connected to a diagnostic machine, while a healthcare professional operates the device.

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Comprehensive EMG Diagnostic Testing

What You Get With Our Testing

Your EMG testing includes both nerve conduction studies and electromyography in one appointment. This comprehensive approach means you won’t need to schedule multiple visits or repeat tests elsewhere.

The testing evaluates conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome, pinched nerves, herniated discs affecting nerve function, peripheral neuropathy, and muscle disorders. You’ll receive detailed results that show exactly which nerves or muscles aren’t functioning normally and the severity of any problems found.

After testing, you get a thorough explanation of your results and what they mean for your symptoms. If treatment is needed, your doctor discusses options based on your specific diagnosis. If the results are normal, you have peace of mind knowing your symptoms aren’t caused by nerve or muscle damage.

A person in a white shirt has electrodes attached to their arm, while another person in a lab coat operates a polygraph machine on a table, indicating a lie detector test in progress.
Most patients tolerate EMG testing well, though you will feel some discomfort. The nerve conduction portion feels like brief electrical tingling – similar to static electricity but controlled and predictable. The electromyography part involves thin needle insertions into muscles, which feels like getting a shot or blood draw. The needles are much thinner than those used for injections, and the insertion is quick. Many patients say the anticipation is worse than the actual test. The entire procedure is performed by experienced technicians who work efficiently to minimize any discomfort while ensuring accurate results.
EMG testing typically takes 30 to 60 minutes, depending on how many nerves and muscles need evaluation. Simple cases testing just a few areas might be completed in 30 minutes, while comprehensive testing of multiple limbs or complex cases can take up to an hour. You’ll receive preliminary results immediately after the test, as your doctor can see the electrical activity patterns in real time. A complete written report with detailed findings and recommendations is usually available within 24 to 48 hours. This allows time for thorough analysis and ensures your referring physician receives comprehensive information to guide your treatment plan.
EMG testing is excellent for diagnosing nerve compression syndromes like carpal tunnel or cubital tunnel syndrome, pinched nerves from herniated discs, peripheral neuropathy from diabetes or other causes, and muscle disorders including myopathy or muscular dystrophy. It can also detect nerve damage from injuries, determine if weakness is caused by nerve or muscle problems, and evaluate conditions like sciatica or cervical radiculopathy. The test is particularly valuable because it shows both the location and severity of nerve or muscle dysfunction, helping your doctor understand whether your symptoms are caused by nerve damage, muscle problems, or something else entirely.
Preparation for EMG testing is minimal, but there are a few important guidelines. Avoid using lotions, oils, or creams on your skin the day of testing, as these can interfere with electrode placement. Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that allows easy access to the areas being tested. Most medications can be continued normally, but inform your doctor about blood thinners, muscle relaxants, or medications that affect nerve function. If you take blood thinners, special precautions may be needed due to the needle insertion portion of the test. Don’t stop any medications without consulting your physician first, as most won’t affect test results.
Most insurance plans, including Medicare, cover EMG testing when it’s medically necessary and ordered by your physician. The test is considered a standard diagnostic procedure for evaluating nerve and muscle disorders. Coverage typically requires that you’ve tried conservative treatments first or have symptoms that warrant immediate diagnostic evaluation. Your insurance may require pre-authorization, so check with your provider before scheduling. If you’re paying out of pocket, costs vary depending on the extent of testing needed. Our billing department can provide specific pricing information and work with you on payment arrangements if needed.
If EMG testing reveals nerve or muscle problems, your treatment options depend on the specific condition and severity. Mild nerve compression might respond to physical therapy, ergonomic changes, or anti-inflammatory medications. More severe cases could require injections, bracing, or surgical intervention. Muscle disorders may need specialized treatment plans including medications, physical therapy, or referral to neuromuscular specialists. We will explain your results in detail and recommend the most appropriate next steps based on your specific diagnosis. Our goal is always to start with conservative treatments when possible and escalate to more intensive interventions only when necessary.