EMG & nerve conduction studies after a car accident or work injury
If you were injured in a car accident or at work, EMG and nerve conduction testing can help evaluate possible nerve damage, identify where the problem may be coming from, and guide the next step in treatment
- Testing for accident-related nerve injuries
- Multiple locations across Florida
- Evaluation and treatment in one care network
What is an EMG and nerve conduction study?
Electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies (NCS) are diagnostic tests used to evaluate how your nerves and muscles are functioning.
An EMG measures electrical activity in the muscles, while an NCS measures how electrical signals travel through the nerves. These tests are often performed together to help identify nerve or muscle dysfunction and determine where the problem may be located
Why you may need an EMG after a car accident or work injury
Car accidents and work-related injuries can affect nerves through compression, stretching, or inflammation. EMG and nerve conduction testing can help evaluate possible nerve damage and determine where the problem may be located
Nerve Compression
Nerve Stretching
Inflammation & Swelling
What Can an EMG Show After an Accident?
EMG and nerve conduction testing can help determine whether an injury has affected your nerves or muscles and provide information about the location and severity of the problem
Nerve Damage
Signs that a nerve is not functioning normally
Location of the Injury
Where along the nerve or nerve root the problem may be located
Severity of the Problem
How significantly nerve or muscle function has been affected
Nerve vs. Muscle Problems
Whether abnormal findings are more consistent with a nerve or muscle disorder
What to expect during your EMG
An EMG and nerve conduction study is typically performed in two parts:
STEP 1: NERVE CONDUCTION STUDY (NCS)
Small electrodes are placed on the skin to measure how electrical signals travel through your nerves
STEP 2: NEEDLE EMG
A thin needle electrode is inserted into selected muscles to measure their electrical activity at rest and during movement
- Generally well tolerated — The nerve conduction study may cause a brief tingling sensation, while the needle EMG may cause mild, temporary discomfort
Typically 30–90 minutes — Depending on the areas being evaluated
When may an EMG be recommended after an injury?
An EMG may be recommended when symptoms after a car accident or work injury suggest that a nerve may be affected.
EMG testing is often most informative about 2–4 weeks after an injury, although the appropriate timing depends on your symptoms and the type of nerve injury. Your doctor will determine when the test should be performed
Numbness & Tingling
Numbness or tingling in the arms, hands, legs, or feet
Muscle Weakness
Weakness or loss of strength after an injury
Radiating Pain
Pain that travels into an arm or leg
Neck or Back Pain
Persistent pain that may involve a nerve or nerve root
Persistent Symptoms
Symptoms that continue or worsen after an injury
What happens after your EMG?
Your EMG results help your doctor understand how your nerves and muscles are functioning and provide information about where the problem may be coming from. Based on the findings, your doctor can recommend the appropriate next step in your care
EMG Results
Review nerve and muscle function
Diagnosis
Identify the location and extent of the problem
Treatment Plan
Physical therapy, pain management, injections, or surgical evaluation
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Frequently asked questions
Wear comfortable clothing and keep the skin clean and free of lotions, creams, or oils on the day of your test. Let your doctor know about any medications you take or medical devices you have before the procedure
Yes, most patients can drive themselves home and return to normal activities after an EMG. You may have mild temporary muscle soreness after the test. Follow any specific instructions provided by your doctor
An EMG can help detect abnormal nerve function that may be associated with a pinched or compressed nerve. It does not show a herniated disc itself, so your doctor may use EMG together with imaging tests such as an MRI.
A normal EMG does not necessarily explain or rule out every possible cause of your symptoms. Your doctor may consider your physical examination, medical history, imaging, and other tests to determine the next step.
Yes. You can usually eat and drink normally before an EMG test unless your doctor gives you different instructions. No fasting is typically required.
It depends on your symptoms and injury. Your doctor may recommend additional tests, such as an MRI or other imaging, to better understand the cause of your symptoms and determine the appropriate treatment.
Your EMG results are typically available by the next business day. Your doctor will explain the findings, what they mean for your condition, and what the next steps in your care may be.
EMG testing is available at all locations. Contact our team at (833) 863-6633 to schedule a consultation and discuss whether EMG testing may be appropriate for you
Schedule a Consultation
If you’re experiencing ongoing symptoms after a car accident or work injury, schedule a consultation with NEO Surgical Group to find out whether EMG and nerve conduction testing may be appropriate for you