An introduction to electromyography: an invited review

Electromyography is a complex diagnostic test that is useful in diagnosing many neuromuscular and musculoskeletal conditions. Physiatrists and neurologists become familiar with this test during their training, while other physicians have minimal or no exposure, outside of perhaps some basic physiology lectures. A review of the anatomy, physiology, and physics upon which electrodiagnostic testing is based and of the various techniques used during a study provides the necessary foundation for understanding and using study results. A discussion of the conditions for which electrodiagnostic testing is useful, including carpal tunnel syndrome, radiculopathy, peripheral neuropathy, and disorders of the neuromuscular junction, is included both to review these disorders and to encourage appropriate referral for electrodiagnostic study.