Electrodiagnostic approach to patients with suspected radiculopathy

This article reviews the electrodiagnostic testing for persons suspected of having radiculopathies and the expected sensitivities that different testing modalities provide. One cannot minimize the importance of the clinical evaluation and differential diagnosis formulation by the electrodiagnostician to guide testing. The needle EMG examination is the most useful electrodiagnostic test but is limited in sensitivity. Electromyographic screening examinations using six muscles are possible that optimize identification yet minimize patient discomfort. Electrodiagnostic findings must be interpreted relative to the patient's clinical presentation, and the consultant should tailor the electrodiagnostic study to the clinical situation.