Do I Need an EMG Test? 7 Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore
- Dr. Matt Johnson
- August 5, 2025
Many people live with unexplained symptoms like tingling, numbness, or muscle weakness and aren’t sure what’s causing them. These issues can be signs of nerve or muscle problems that often go undiagnosed for too long. An EMG test is a safe and effective way to find out what’s really going on. At Neuromuscular Diagnostics, we provide expert EMG testing in Chicago to help uncover the root causes of nerve and muscle symptoms In this article, we’ll walk you through seven common signs that may mean it’s time to consider an EMG—and how getting answers now can lead to better treatment and peace of mind.
What Is an EMG Test?
An EMG (electromyography) test checks how well your muscles and nerves are working together. It’s a diagnostic tool that records electrical signals from muscles to detect nerve or muscle damage. If your doctor suspects that your symptoms are coming from a pinched nerve, a damaged nerve root, or a muscle disorder, they may recommend an EMG. Learn more in this EMG test overview.
This test is often done alongside a Nerve Conduction Velocity (NCV) study, which measures how quickly signals travel through your nerves. Together, these tests can help identify conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome, sciatica, peripheral neuropathy, or even more complex neuromuscular disorders. See a full list of conditions EMG detects.
At Neuromuscular Diagnostics in Chicago, we use advanced EMG and NCV testing methods to give patients clear answers and guide effective treatment plans.
Why Symptoms Shouldn’t Be Ignored
Mild symptoms like tingling or occasional numbness might not seem serious at first, but they can be early signs of nerve or muscle damage. These issues often get worse over time if left untreated. Ignoring them could delay diagnosis and make recovery more difficult.
Getting tested early—especially with tools like EMG and NCV—can help pinpoint the exact problem and lead to a more effective treatment plan. Our guide on what an EMG can diagnose explains the specific conditions this test can uncover. Whether it’s a pinched nerve, a repetitive stress injury, or an underlying condition like diabetes, the sooner you get answers, the better your chances of healing.
Now let’s look at seven signs that may mean it’s time to consider an EMG.
7 Signs You May Need an EMG Test
1. Persistent Numbness or Tingling
If you regularly feel numbness or tingling in your hands, arms, legs, or feet, it could be a sign of nerve dysfunction. These symptoms are often linked to conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome or peripheral neuropathy. An EMG test can help find out whether the issue is coming from a compressed or damaged nerve. In some cases, your doctor may also recommend Somatosensory Evoked Potentials (SSEP) testing to evaluate sensory pathways in the spinal cord and brain, especially if symptoms suggest sensory rather than motor nerve involvement.
2. Muscle Weakness Without a Clear Cause
Struggling to lift objects, grip things tightly, or walk without feeling unstable? Unexplained muscle weakness can point to problems with the nerves that control movement. EMG testing can help determine whether the weakness is caused by nerve injury or muscle disease.
3. Ongoing Pain in Your Back, Arms, or Legs
Chronic pain—especially when it feels like burning, shooting, or electrical sensations—can signal nerve irritation or compression. If you’ve tried rest, stretching, or physical therapy and the pain persists, EMG testing may help pinpoint the exact source.
4. Signs of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
If you wake up with tingling or numbness in your fingers—or notice your hands “fall asleep” while driving or typing—you might have carpal tunnel syndrome. This condition happens when the median nerve is compressed at the wrist. An EMG test is one of the most accurate ways to confirm the diagnosis and guide treatment.
5. Pain That Radiates Down Your Leg or Arm
Pain that shoots from your lower back down one leg (sciatica) or from your neck into your arm may come from a pinched nerve in your spine. EMG can help determine if the nerve root is affected and how severe the problem is, which can help your doctor decide on the best next step.
6. Frequent Muscle Twitching or Cramping
Occasional twitching is common, but frequent or severe muscle spasms could point to a neuromuscular issue. EMG testing can help identify abnormal electrical activity in the muscles and detect underlying nerve or muscle disorders. View an EMG clinical summary.
7. You Have Diabetes or a History of Nerve Injury
People with diabetes are at higher risk of developing peripheral neuropathy—a condition that affects nerves in the hands, feet, and legs. If you’ve had past surgeries, injuries, or trauma, those nerves may also be at risk. EMG testing can uncover silent or early-stage nerve damage before it worsens.
What Happens During an EMG Test?
If you’ve never had an EMG before, it’s normal to feel unsure about what to expect. The test is done in a medical office and usually takes about 30 to 60 minutes. It’s an outpatient procedure, which means you can go home the same day.
During the test, small electrodes are placed on your skin or gently inserted into specific muscles. These electrodes measure how your muscles respond to nerve signals. You may feel a quick pinch or slight discomfort, but most people find the procedure manageable. For a deeper explanation of what the test feels like, read our article: Is an EMG test painful?
At Neuromuscular Diagnostics in Chicago, we focus on making the experience as comfortable and accurate as possible. Our team uses state-of-the-art equipment, and Dr. Johnson personally reviews each result to ensure a precise diagnosis. The information we gather helps your doctor understand what’s going on beneath the surface—and what to do next. Read EMG safety guidelines.
If you’d like a more detailed explanation of what the procedure feels like, see our article: Is an EMG test painful?
Where to Get an EMG Test in Chicago
Neuromuscular Diagnostics, led by Dr. Matt Johnson, is one of the few clinics in Illinois specializing exclusively in EMG and NCV testing. Many patients also ask about pricing before booking. Our EMG test cost guide breaks down average fees, insurance coverage, and why outpatient testing is usually less expensive than hospital-based studies.
Patients choose our clinic because we provide:
Expertise: Dr. Johnson is a licensed physical therapist trained in advanced electrodiagnostic methods, and our entire team is focused on nerve and muscle testing.
Precision Diagnostics: We use cutting-edge equipment to deliver accurate results—whether you’re dealing with suspected carpal tunnel, diabetic neuropathy, or sciatica.
Patient-Centered Care: Tests are performed in a comfortable outpatient setting with clear explanations at every step.
Convenient Location & Scheduling: Centrally located in Chicago, we offer flexible appointment times and work directly with physicians to share results quickly.
Follow‑Up Support: Once testing is complete, we provide detailed reports and collaborate with your healthcare provider to guide the best treatment options.
At Neuromuscular Diagnostics, we’re proud to offer Chicago patients specialized, clear, and compassionate care for nerve and muscle issues—so you get answers and can move forward with confidence.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Wait for Symptoms to Get Worse
Nerve and muscle problems often start small—but they can progress quickly if left undiagnosed. Whether you’re experiencing numbness, weakness, or radiating pain, these signs shouldn’t be ignored. An EMG test is a powerful tool to help uncover the root of the issue and guide the right treatment plan.
At Neuromuscular Diagnostics in Chicago, we’re here to help you find answers. Our focused approach to EMG and NCV testing means you get expert-level care, fast results, and the clarity you deserve.
Schedule Your EMG Test Today
Think you may need an EMG? Contact Neuromuscular Diagnostics to schedule a consultation or learn more about our electrodiagnostic services in Chicago.
Matt Johnson, PT, DPT is the founder of Neuromuscular Diagnostics in Chicago. As one of the few licensed physical therapists in Illinois trained in advanced electrodiagnostic techniques, Dr. Johnson specializes in EMG and Nerve Conduction Velocity (NCV) testing. His clinical focus is on accurately identifying neuromuscular disorders to support effective treatment planning and improve patient outcomes.
