EMG Test Center in Mumbai​

An EMG or Electromyography study test evaluates muscle and nerve health by measuring electrical activity in muscles while at rest and moving. It is usually done to diagnose nerve damage, neurological conditions, and muscle disorders. The test involves inserting electrode needles into the muscle, which records the signal, which is known as the EMS signal. The procedure is safe and minimally invasive. However, it may still cause some amount of discomfort. Also, it is sometimes conducted alongside NCS (nerve conduction studies) to assess nerve and muscle functioning.

Depending on the purpose, it can be done using surface electrodes or fine needle electrodes inserted into a specific muscle region that needs testing. Advances in technology have further improved EMG accuracy, which is crucial in the neurological field. Gleneagles Hospitals, also known as the best EMG test center in Mumbai​, offers affordable and accurate tests using advanced technology and world-class facilities.

Electromyography, or EMG procedure, is a diagnostic procedure that helps assess the health of the muscle and nerve cells that control them (motor neurons). It can help identify nerve or muscle dysfunction and problems related to nerve-to-muscle signal transmission. These impulses are converted into graphs, sounds, or numerical values using tiny devices known as electrodes, which an expert subsequently deciphers.

Another test then follows the EMG test in Mumbai​, the nerve conduction test or the EMG NCV test. The test measures the strength and speed of the signal moving between two or more sites using electrode stickers that are put on the skin.

There are multiple types of EMG tests, including: 

1. Surface EMG (sEMG): Surface electromyography, or EMG, is a non-invasive procedure that records muscle activity using electrodes placed on the skin. It assesses muscle function, diagnosis neuromuscular disorders, and studies muscle fatigue.

During the procedure, adhesive electrodes on the skin over the targeted muscle detect EMG signals generated during muscle contraction. It is mainly used in sports science, rehabilitation, ergonomic research, etc., which helps detect activation and movement patterns.

2. Intramuscular EMG (iEMG): Intramuscular electromyography (EMG) assesses deep muscle activity by inserting fine needle electrodes. It detects and diagnoses neuromuscular disorders detects muscle weakness and assesses nerve function.

The needles record electrical activity during rest and contraction of the muscle and nerve. It provides detailed and more precise information than surface EMG, which makes it valuable for detecting muscle diseases and nerve damage.

3. Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS): A nerve conduction study, commonly known as NCS, assesses peripheral nerve function by measuring the speed and strength of electrical signals. It is mostly used to diagnose conditions such as - neuropathy, nerve injuries, and carpal tunnel syndrome.

The procedure involves placing electrodes on the skin along the nerve pathway and delivering small electrical impulses. It stimulates the nerve and records the response to evaluate the nerve function.

EMG is done if the patient has symptoms of muscle or nerve disorder. Some of the symptoms are as follows:

• Muscle weakness
• Tingling and numbness
• Muscle pain or cramping

Also, it is done to rule out any of the following diseases:  

• Muscle disorders such as - muscular dystrophy or polymyositis
• Diseases affecting the connection between the muscle and nerve, such as - myasthenia gravis
• Disorders outside the spinal cord, such as - carpal tunnel syndrome or peripheral neuropathies.
• Certain disorders, such as - amyotrophic lateral sclerosis or polio, affect the motor neurons in the brain or spinal cord.
• Herniated disk in the spine and other disorders that affect the nerve root. 

Now that we have discussed “What is an EMG test used to diagnose?” Let's discuss how to prepare for the procedure. Before the procedure begins, the doctors will explain everything in detail. Also, the patients may ask questions if they have any. They will also suggest performing an EMG nerve conduction study.

Though few precautions are required before the test, doctors usually advise quitting cigarettes and caffeinated beverages such as tea, coffee, soft drinks, etc., before 2-3 hours of testing. Also, informing the doctor about all the current medications, including herbal supplements, is advisable.

It is important to dress casually so that it is easy to access the area to be tested. Also, do not use oil or lotion for a few days before the procedure. Moreover, doctors will request specific preparation based on the medical condition and other factors. 

Electromyography or EMG procedure is done on an outpatient basis or as part of a stay at the hospital. The procedure may vary depending on the medical condition and the doctor’s practices. EMG is performed by a neurologist - who specialises in brain and nerve disorders with the help of a technologist. Here is the process EMG follows:

• The patient will be asked to remove any accessories, eyeglasses, hearing aids, or other metal objects. Also, they will be given a gown to wear for testing.
• They will be either asked to sit or lie down, and the neurologist will locate the muscle for the test.
• The area to be tested is cleansed with an antiseptic solution, and a fine, sterile needle is inserted into the muscle.
• A ground electrode will be attached under the leg or arm - which might be painful. In addition, two or more needles might be inserted for the test.
• In case of any discomfort, the patient can inform the examiner, as the pain can interfere with the results. Next, they will be asked to relax and then perform slight or full-strength muscle contractions.
• Electrical activity from the working muscle is recorded during the test and shown on the oscilloscope. An audio amplifier may occasionally be used to assess the electrical potentials' look and sound. Muscle contraction may produce a sound like hail on a tin roof if the recorder is connected to an audio amplifier.

After the EMG test, a nerve conduction study is done, also called an EMG nerve conduction study. Instead of measuring the muscle's reaction, this test gauges the current flowing through a neuron before it reaches the muscle. NCS can determine nerve damage and destruction. Both procedures help identify the presence, location, and extent of diseases that may cause damage to the nerves and muscles. 

As it is a non-invasive procedure, EMG does not have a recovery time. However, the patient may experience some minor bruising when the needle is inserted. This usually fades within a week. But if the issue persists, it is advisable to contact a doctor.

Once the result is out, the neurologist will interpret it, and the primary doctor who ordered the EMG will take further action.

EMG is basically a low-risk procedure with little to no complications. However, with the use of needles, there are little chances of bleeding, infection, and nerve injury. Additionally, there is a slight chance that using a needle electrode to assess the muscles along the chest wall could leak air into the space between the lungs and the chest wall, which could cause the lung to collapse (pneumothorax).

The cost of EMG tests in Mumbai ranges from INR 1,500 to INR 10,000 - depending on several factors. Surface EMG is considered less expensive than intramuscular and nerve conduction studies. Prices also vary across the city, depending on the type of hospital chosen. A metropolitan hospital will charge more for the tests due to the availability of better technology and expertise. Also, the condition being diagnosed may add up to the cost.

Here are some of the factors that affect EMG test costs in Mumbai:

• Equipment and technology used for testing
• Need for additional testing along with EMG
• Fees of the specialists (neurologist and technologist)
• Location and reputation of the hospital or EMG test center in Mumbai​
• Type of EMG tests (surface EMG, intramuscular EMG, Nerve Conduction Studies)

Gleneagles Hospitals is known for highly qualified neurologists and technologists who perform EMG tests with precision. We use advanced technology to evaluate and assess nerve and muscle function analysis accurately. Our patients can avail themselves of consultation, diagnostics, and follow-up care under the same roof. Also, we are internationally recognized for setting high medical testing and diagnostics standards!

Contact Gleneagles Hospitals for EMG tests!