MENDOCINO PHYSICAL THERAPY

EMG and Nerve Conduction Studies are performed to assess the integrity of nerves and muscles. Complaints of swelling, weakness, numbness, and tingling are typical symptoms associated with nerve damage. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is one of the most common reasons for referral for an EMG/NCV test.

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Prior to the exam, Dr. Bracewell will take a thorough history and perform a physical evaluation. Once this is complete, you will dress in a gown and/or shorts as indicated. The EMG study requires a sterile, disposable needle electrode (smaller than most hypodermic needles) used intramuscularly. The nerve will be stimulated at multiple sites. Muscle-generated waveforms are observed on a computerized oscilloscope with the muscle at rest and during contractions of the muscle. There are no side effects nor will medication interfere with the test. 

Please allow two hours for the tests. Nerve conduction studies of appropriate nerves are performed to help document carpal tunnel syndrome, other entrapment syndromes and neuropathies. The EMG study helps to document cervical and lumbar radiculopathies, myopathies and disorders of the spinal cell.

Dr. Bracewell was the first Physical Therapist in the country to be certified by a state in 1979. He had previously performed this test for eight years in the U.S. Army Medical Specialist Corp where he mentored under several neurologists. There are currently 204 other Physical Therapists in the United States who are board-certified to perform this test.