Electromyogram

Electromyogram: what is it and how does it work

An electromyogram (EMG) is a method for studying muscle activity that allows you to evaluate the electrical activity of a muscle during its contraction. EMG is used for medical purposes to diagnose diseases of the muscular system, as well as to monitor the effectiveness of treatment.

The principle of operation of EMG is to record the electrical potentials that arise in muscles during contraction. To do this, electrodes are inserted into the muscle, which record electrical signals and transmit them to a device for analysis.

There are two types of EMG: surface and needle. Surface EMG is performed using electrodes that are placed on the surface of the skin above the muscle. Needle EMG is performed using thin needles that are inserted directly into the muscle.

Surface EMG has some limitations because electrical signals that originate in muscle may be attenuated when passing through the thickness of the skin and subcutaneous fat. Needle EMG is more accurate, but requires a more complex procedure and may cause some discomfort to the patient.

When performing an EMG, the doctor can evaluate not only the strength of muscle activity, but also its characteristics, such as the duration and frequency of muscle contractions. This makes it possible to diagnose some diseases of the muscular system, such as muscular dystrophy, myasthenia gravis, polio and others.

In addition, EMG can be used to monitor the effectiveness of treatment, for example during rehabilitation after injury or muscle surgery. The doctor may perform an EMG regularly to assess the progress of muscle function recovery.

In conclusion, EMG is an important method for diagnosing and monitoring muscle activity, which allows doctors to gain valuable information about the state of the patient's muscular system. If it is necessary to conduct an EMG, you should contact qualified specialists and follow all doctor’s recommendations.