Has anyone ever had to have an EMG to test for nerve damage?

I just got home and if I knew what the test was like I wouldnt have gone to begin with The electric shocks didnt hurt as much as the needles, especially the ones behind the neck. I kept asking the dr. if I could be paralyzed from doing it there and he laughed at me

Did you have any swelling after? In a few of the spots he did the needle pokes in my arms, I have swelling in the muscles.

Message edited 10/29/2008 7:11:38 PM.

Re: Has anyone ever had to have an EMG to test for nerve damage?

OMG! Yes, and I still cringe when I heard the name of the test mentioned. I had it back when I was about 25. I had a severe herniated disk in my lower back, had possible nerve damage in my leg and my leg had atrophied, so they wanted to see the extent of nerve damage in my legs, if any. So they had to do both my legs

The shocks I could deal with, but like you said, the needles that they pierced my muscles with almost sent me into shock! I literally had tears streaming down my face and I was trying not to cry!

Happy to say I had no lingering side effects. And no nerve damage.

Re: Has anyone ever had to have an EMG to test for nerve damage?

OH GOODNESS!!!!! That test was HELL!!!!!

I had it first done for my lower body, then had to do the upper body the next week. I wanted to cancel my second one. I cried like a baby and swore right at the doctor.

I don't remember if I had swelling anywhere, but I don't think so. I'd say if it was still there in the morning, I'd call the office to find out if it's normal.

Re: Has anyone ever had to have an EMG to test for nerve damage?

Oh I HATED that test and I have a high pain tolerance.

I was hurting for a few days after it!!! He nerves were all fired up and tingly

I do have nerve damage so I don't know if that is why I hurt for a while after it or not.

Re: Has anyone ever had to have an EMG to test for nerve damage?

i got TEARS in my eyes reading this topic title...

that pain was like no other i have experienced in my lifetime.... I am so sorry you have had to go through it..

I didn't have swelling, but wanted to give you major hugs for getting through it...

ETA: I wound up having nerve damage in my foot and calf, so as Blissful said, maybe that's why i didn't have the swelling...

Message edited 10/30/2008 10:36:03 AM.