ELECTRODIAGNOSTICS: Comprehensive muscle and nerve testing in Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky
Referrals Welcome:
Dr. Timothy Burns accepts referral from primary care physicians, orthopedic surgeons, athletic trainers, physical therapists, chiropractors, urgent care providers and school/club healthcare staff for evaluation and non-operative management sports injuries and musculoskeletal conditions.
Electrodiagnostic Testing (EMG and Nerve Conduction Studies)
Expert Electroddiagnostic Evaluation for Nerve and Muscle Disorders
Electrodiagnostic testing - including Elecrtromyography (EMG) and Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS) - provides objective evaluation of peripheral nerve disorders. These studies are essential for identifying the location, severity and chonicity of nerve injuries.
Dr. Timothy Burns performs physician-directed electrodiagnostic testing to assist referring providers in diagnosing , managing and guiding treatment decisions with orthopedic-related nerve conditions.
What Are EMG and Nerve Conduction Studies?
Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS) evaluate hoe efficiently electrical signals travel through peripheral nerves.
Electromyography assesses the electrical activity of muscles at rest and during activation.
Together, EMG/ NCS helps determine:
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Whether symptoms are due to nerve injury, nerve compression, muscle disease of systemic neuropathy.
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If nerve damage is acute versus chronic
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The severity and functional impact of the condition
Conditions Commonly Evaluated with Electrodiagnostic Testing:
Electrodiagnostic studies are commonly used to evaluate:
Peripheral Nerve Disorders:
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Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
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Cubital Tunnel Syndrome (ulnar neuropathy)
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Radial Nerve Palsy (wrist drop)
Cervical and Lumbar Radiculopathy
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Nerve root compression affecting the arm or leg
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Disc herniation - related to nerve symptoms
Traumatic and Work-Related Nerve Injuries
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Repetitive use inuries
When to Refer for EMG / Nerve Conduction Studies
Patient's are referred to Dr. Timothy Burns when patients present with:
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Persistent numbness and tingling
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Weakness without clear structural cause
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Radiating pain into the arm or leg
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Unclear imaging findings
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Need to differentiate between nerve and muscle pathology
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Failure to improve with conservative treatment
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Functional impairment impacting work or activity
Electrodiagnostic testing is especially valuable when imaging alone does not fully explain the patients symptoms.
Electrodiagnostic Testing Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is EMG painful?
Most patient tolerate EMG and NCS well. Some brief discomfort may occur, but, testing is generally quick and well controlled.
How long does testing take?
Most studies are completed with 10-20 minutes, depending on the complexity.
When will the results be available and who will review the results with me?
Results are available within 24 hours after the procedure. The results are typically reviewed with the patient by the ordering provider at the follow up visit.
Do I need imaging before the EMG?
No always. EMG/NCS often compliments or clarifies MRI or ultrasound findings.
Can EMG determine how severe nerve damage is?
Yes. Electrodiagnostics can assess severity, chronicity, and recovery potential.
Is EMG useful for work-related injuries?
Yes. EMG/NCS provides objective documentation for occupational and repetitive-use nerve injuries.
Should I have my EMG performed by a physician?
Yes. Electrodiagnostic accuracy depends heavily on clinical correlation, technique and interpretation, all of which are improved when a physician specialist performs the testing.
Do I need a referral for an EMG/NCS?
Yes. A referral will be needed and often, insurance authorization as well.
Will my EMG be completed the same day as it is ordered?
No. EMG/NCS require sufficient time for completion, and, will be scheduled during an EMG procedure clinic time.
Dr. Timothy Burns personally performs and interprets all electrodiagnostic evaluations (EMGs and Nerve Conduction Studies).
Schedule and Electrodiagnostic Evaluation
If you are experiencing unexplained numbness, weakness or nerve-related symptoms-or if you are a referring provider seeking precise neuromuscular evaluation - electrodiagnostic testing can provide clinical clarity.
Request an EMG / Nerve Conduction Study evaluation with Dr. Timothy Burns