What do you know about Electrodiagnostic Testing? If the answer is not so much, then you will want to read this blog in full!

Electrodiagnostic testing is a method of evaluating the electrical activity of muscles and nerves to diagnose conditions such as Peripheral Neuropathy, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, and Radiculopathy. These tests typically involve the use of electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies (NCS) to measure the electrical activity in the muscles and nerves, helping to identify the location, cause, and severity of nerve or muscle disorders, and also monitor the progress of treatment.

So now that we’ve defined what this process looks like, let’s talk about some recent advances in the area of practice, and what our process at MidAmerica Orthopaedics looks like in conversation with these topics.

Advancement #1: Wireless Electromyography (EMG)

Wireless Electromyography technology allows for the recording of EMG signals using wireless sensors, which can improve patient comfort and mobility during testing.

Additionally, wireless EMG systems can typically be easily integrated into existing clinical workflows and can also be used for telemedicine and remote monitoring of patients. This technology can be useful in a variety of settings, including rehabilitation, sports medicine, and neurology, and also for patients who have difficulty staying still during testing, such as children or patients with movement disorders.

Advancement #2: Advanced Nerve Conduction Testing

Advanced Nerve Conduction Testing is a diagnostic technique used to assess the function of peripheral nerves. These nerves are responsible for controlling muscle movement and sensation in the arms and legs. The test is typically used to diagnose nerve conditions such as Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Peripheral Neuropathy, and nerve damage resulting from diabetes or other causes.

During the test, small electrical impulses are applied to the nerves using electrodes. The response of the nerve to these impulses is then measured and analyzed. This can provide information about the health of the nerve and any damage or dysfunction that may be present.

Advanced nerve conduction testing typically includes several different types of tests. These may include:

• Motor nerve conduction studies, which measure the response of motor nerves to electrical impulses.
• Sensory nerve conduction studies, which measure the response of sensory nerves to electrical impulses.
• F-wave studies, which measure the response of nerves to a second electrical impulse.
• H-reflex studies, which measure the response of nerves to a specific type of electrical impulse.

The test is usually performed by a neurologist or a physiatrist. It is typically non-invasive and painless, although some mild discomfort may be experienced during the procedure. The results of the test can help to guide treatment decisions and determine the cause of symptoms such as weakness, numbness, or pain in the limbs.

Advancement #3: Portable Devices

In recent years, there has been a trend towards the use of portable devices for electrodiagnostic testing.

These portable devices are typically smaller and more compact than traditional equipment and can be used in a variety of settings, including patients' homes and in remote locations. This allows for greater convenience and flexibility for both patients and healthcare providers. Additionally, portable devices can also be more cost-effective than traditional equipment, as they may not require the use of additional resources such as a laboratory or specialized room.

One example of a portable device used in electrodiagnostic testing is a hand-held EMG device. These devices are small and lightweight, and can be used to test the electrical activity of a muscle in a patient's home. This can be especially useful for patients who have difficulty traveling to a healthcare facility for testing.

Another example is a portable nerve conduction study (NCS) device. These devices are also small and portable, and can be used to measure the speed and strength of nerve impulses in different parts of the body. This can aid in the diagnosis of conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome, peripheral neuropathy, and other nerve disorders.

Overall, portable devices are a promising advancement in the field of electrodiagnostic testing as they increase accessibility and convenience while also being cost-effective. It also enables the healthcare providers to monitor patients remotely, and may help improve patient outcomes by allowing for earlier diagnosis and treatment.

Overall, these advancements are changing the landscape of our industry and as always, MidAmerica Orthopaedics is a patient-first clinic and we are here to support you with any orthopaedic ailment or concern that you may have.