EMG Test for Neck Pain: What to Expect

Cervical radiculopathy (CR) is a condition characterized by pain, numbness, and tingling sensations in the neck, shoulder, and arm due to compression or irritation of one or more nerve roots in the cervical spine. Electromyography (EMG) is a diagnostic test used to evaluate the electrical activity of muscles and detect any abnormalities that may indicate CR or other conditions.

In this article, we will discuss the results of an EMG study conducted on patients with neck pain radiating to the shoulder and arm on the same side. The aim of the study was to assess the diagnostic contribution of EMG in patients with sensory manifestations without objective neurological deficits.

The study included a total of 'number' patients who were referred to the EMG Laboratory for evaluation of their neck pain radiating to the shoulder and arm on the same side. The patients were separated into two groups according to the specificity of their presenting symptoms: those with purely sensory manifestations and those with objective neurological deficits.

The results showed that EMG rarely confirmed CR in patients with purely sensory symptoms, suggesting that EMG may not be a reliable diagnostic tool for detecting CR in these cases. However, when patients had both paraspinal and limb muscle EMG abnormalities indicative of CR, the test was more accurate in localization and diagnosis.

Importance of EMG

The study highlights the importance of EMG in diagnosing CR, particularly in patients with objective neurological findings. While some patients may present with only pain and paresthesias, EMG can help identify underlying neuropathies that may not be apparent on clinical examination.

In conclusion, this study demonstrates the value of EMG in diagnosing cervical radiculopathy and identifying entrapment neuropathies in patients with neck pain radiating to the shoulder and arm. By understanding the limitations and benefits of EMG testing, healthcare providers can make more informed decisions about patient care and treatment.

* EMG is a valuable diagnostic tool for diagnosing cervical radiculopathy.

* The test is most accurate when patients have objective neurological findings.

* Purely sensory manifestations may not be sufficient to confirm CR using EMG.

* Entrapment neuropathies can occur in patients with neck pain radiating to the shoulder and arm.

References

Ercan MB, Kuruoglu HR. Electromyography in cervical radiculopathy: a retrospective study. 'Journal name', 'Year'.

Emg test neck