Hi Amy @aeg73, I've had several EMG tests and felt some discomfort but not what I would call real pain. Others maybe able to share their experience with you also. Mayo Clinic has some information on the test and why it's done here:

Electromyography (EMG)
-- https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/emg/about/pac-20393913

As far as how to make an official post/question -- you did great! I would keep asking questions and learning as much as you can about your health conditions. It will help you ask better questions when meeting with your doctors and hopefully lead to a better diagnosis/treatment.

Here are a couple of other discussions that you might find helpful:

> Groups > Bones, Joints & Muscles > Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis) but is it something else?
-- https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/frozen-shoulder-adhesive-capsulitis-but-is-it-something-else/

> Groups > Neuropathy > Myofascial Release Therapy (MFR) for treating compression and pain
-- https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/myofascial-release-therapy-mfr-for-treating-compression-and-pain/

@age73

First, I'd like to welcome you to our group.
We are not medical professionals, so all we do is share OUR OWN experiences and research.
This is the place to share, ask questions, laugh, cry and anything else you need or want to do.
We are here for you!

Now for your first question about the EMG.
I will NOT lie to you.
My experience is that they are painful.
Will you jump out of your seat or feel like you are going to die?
That, my friend, depends on your pain tolerance.
Once the test is over, so is the discomfort.
The EMG is looking for nerve issues.
By this test, your doctor can tell which nerve is impacting where (if any).
This might either diagnose a problem, where the problem is coming from and help to develop a plan of action.
Or, it might not show anything, which means your doctor might want further testing.

Now, as for HOW the test is done...
It might be different in different places as technology changes.
A technician (or doctor), specially trained, will do this procedure.
You go into a room and change into a gown.
No socks since they will probably check your feet.
You lay down on an exam table.
Electrode-type things are put on you.
The other end is attached to some sort of a data collection piece of equipment.
Little shocks will be placed in different areas (they feel like little needles).
Then, there is another part which for the life of me I cannot remember.
Before the test, feel free to have an explanation of how the test is done and what they are looking for.

You are your best advocate.

Good luck!
Perhaps someone else can fill in the missing pieces, add or correct.

Ronnie (GRANDMAr)

@age73 Regarding the EMG, try to research the doctor who will perform your EMG. I had an EMG performed by a well-respected neurologist and he had me jumping off the table with pain. It was so senseless. He said that it was because I was overly sensitive to pain. A month later I had a second more thorough EMG performed by another neurologist and only once did I experience slight discomfort. It was like night and day between the two. I hope you will find a doctor who is skilled at performing EMGs.