Is an EMG (electromyography) painful?

Posted by wisfloj @wisfloj, Jun 16, 2020

I canceled my EMG appointment because I was 'chicken'. They called me to reschedule and I’m on the fence here. So veterans.... How bad is it?
I’ve had a nerve conduction study and that was tolerable. Thank you for sharing your experience/thoughts.

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wisfloj | @wisfloj | Jun 23, 2020

Thank you all for your encouragement. I guess part of my hesitation is the question “will these results even lead to a determination of the cause and thus a cure for my neuropathy“? I’m working with a university Dr now. Got nowhere with my first one. Just seems the verdict is 'no cure and take drugs to mask pain.' For me, no cause as well. I just keep thinking if I go through with this testing will there be any benefit?

laurie1l | @laurie1l | Jun 23, 2020

Only one way to find out --------- GO ! If you go you may get results --- If you don't go nothing will change for sure.

Hank | @jesfactsmon | Jun 23, 2020

In reply to @laurie1l "Only one way to find out --------- GO ! If you go you may get results..." + (show)

@wisfloj I agree with Laurie, however if some part of doing it strikes you as high cost to benefit, such as a horrible or long drive to and from, or something else, write down the pluses and minuses on a sheet of paper. Also, try writing down what your specific fears are as well as the things you hope to get out of doing it. Amazing how writing stuff out can bring you clarity. Best, Hank

Rachel, Volunteer Mentor | @rwinney | Jun 23, 2020

In reply to @jesfactsmon "@wisfloj I agree with Laurie, however if some part of doing it strikes you as high..." + (show)

Agreed on that. I too am a paper girl. list maker, writer downer. Great advice Hank!

Joanne (I think)...it sounds like you have a huge supportive cheering section to just get it over with.

marye2 | @marye2 | Jun 24, 2020

In reply to @rwinney "@wisfloj This is too funny because I have had both an EMG and NCS over 2..." + (show)

Smart! I have MCTD and have had the tests, but comes out normal. Have had some success treating like fibromyalgia, which requires movement to keep pain at bay. Inflammation, fluids pressing against nerves is my take. A daily walk for generalized pain; PT for specific joints. I use KT (kinesiology) tape to isolate painful areas, lidocaine patches, ice/heat, epsom salt baths, accupressure point massage...haven't tried accupuncture yet. Compression socks make a difference for legs.

Rachel, Volunteer Mentor | @rwinney | Jun 24, 2020

In reply to @marye2 "Smart! I have MCTD and have had the tests, but comes out normal. Have had some..." + (show)

Sounds like you've got it down to a science. What we do for our bodies. Keep up the good work!

wisfloj | @wisfloj | Jun 24, 2020

Okay okay! I will go LOL i’m on Medicare now so it’ll be covered, it’s only about a half hour from me, and when it’s over I can say I tried everything. I have some Xanax I haven’t taken in a while, so I think one of those should do the trick and Yes I will have a driver.My only issue was the pain I’m anticipating🐔Thank you to my cheerleaders!
Joanne