Medically reviewed by Sumiran Racherla, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 23, 2026.
What kind of doctor provides Electromyogram?
A neurologist, a doctor who treats nerve and muscle problems, usually handles an electromyogram. During the test, your provider places a small needle with an electrode into a muscle. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
What it is
An electromyogram is a test that checks how well your muscles and the nerves that control them are working. It is also called an EMG or a myogram. Nerves control your muscles by sending out electrical signals that make the muscles move. As a muscle tightens, it gives off electrical activity that can be measured. The activity is shown on a video screen as wavy and spiky lines.
Why a doctor might recommend it
Done with a nerve conduction study, an electromyogram helps providers tell if symptoms come from a muscle or a nerve disorder. Testing may be suggested when you have symptoms of a muscle or nerve disorder. These symptoms include muscle weakness. They also include tingling or numbness in the arms, legs, hands, feet, or face.
Call 911 or go to the emergency room if you have sudden weakness, trouble breathing, or fainting.
How to prepare
- Tell your provider if you have a pacemaker, a cardiac defibrillator, or another implanted device.
- Tell the provider doing the test if you take blood thinners or anticoagulants.
- Do not use creams or lotions on the day of the test.
What happens during it
If you have both tests, the nerve conduction study is done first. Your provider sticks electrodes to your skin above the nerve being checked. These electrodes deliver a mild electrical pulse. This may cause a mild tingling feeling. This part may take from 15 minutes to over an hour, depending on how many nerves and muscles are tested.
For the needle part, your provider cleans the skin over the muscle. A small needle with an electrode then goes into the muscle. You tighten the muscle slowly while the machine records its activity. This part may take 30 to 60 minutes.
Recovery
The muscles that were tested may be sore for a few days after the test. You may also have some bruises on your skin where the needles were placed. Your provider will look at your symptoms, medical history, and other test results to understand your results. Results that are not normal can be a sign of many different conditions.
Risks and side effects
- Temporary discomfort where the needle goes in
- Minimal bleeding
- Rare infection at the electrode sites
You may have a tingly feeling, like mild static electricity, during a nerve conduction study.
Who performs it
Neurologists usually perform and read these tests. Your provider places the needle into the muscle.
Common questions
What does an electromyogram show?
It shows the electrical signals your muscles make when they are at rest and when they are used. A healthy muscle should not give off any electrical signals when you are not moving it. If a muscle is damaged, it may show electrical activity at rest or activity that is not normal while it is used.
Is an electromyogram the same as a nerve conduction study?
No, they are separate tests that are usually done at the same time. A nerve conduction study measures how fast and how well your body's electrical signals move along your nerves.
Can a nerve conduction test look normal if a nerve is damaged?
Yes, in some cases the results may be normal even if there is nerve damage. This is because the test shows the condition of the best surviving nerve fibers.
Does an electromyogram hurt?
It can hurt a little. You may feel slight pain or discomfort when the needle goes in. Let your provider know if your pain becomes very uncomfortable, because this may change your test results.
How does a direct primary care or concierge doctor fit in?
A direct primary care doctor charges a flat monthly fee instead of billing insurance, while a concierge doctor usually charges more and often works alongside insurance. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
Sources
- MedlinePlus - Electromyography
- MedlinePlus - Electromyography (EMG) and Nerve Conduction Studies
- MedlinePlus - Nerve conduction velocity
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
