EMG

Medical abbreviation · Neurology

EMG
Stands forElectromyography
CategoriesMedical

EMG stands for Electromyography, a neurology abbreviation.

Test in which a fine needle electrode is inserted into muscles to record their electrical activity at rest and during contraction, distinguishing nerve damage from primary muscle disease. It is usually performed together with nerve conduction studies.

Example: EMG shows active denervation in L5-innervated muscles consistent with right L5 radiculopathy.

Usage notes

Abnormal spontaneous activity at rest, such as fibrillation potentials, indicates nerve damage, while the size and recruitment of motor unit potentials help separate neuropathy from myopathy. The test is mildly uncomfortable and is performed by a neurologist or physiatrist. Many people use "EMG" loosely for the whole combined nerve and muscle study.

More neurology abbreviations

  • DTN – Door-to-needle time
  • DTR – Deep tendon reflex
  • EDH – Epidural hematoma
  • EDS – Excessive daytime sleepiness
  • EDSS – Expanded Disability Status Scale
  • EEG – Electroencephalogram
  • EMU – Epilepsy monitoring unit
  • EP – Evoked potentials
  • ESUS – Embolic stroke of undetermined source
  • ET – Essential tremor
  • ETV – Endoscopic third ventriculostomy
  • EVD – External ventricular drain

See all 131 neurology abbreviations →

Edited by the AbbreviationList.com team. Spotted an error or a missing meaning? Contact us.

This entry is for general education and is not medical advice. Abbreviation use varies between institutions; always confirm in context.