Dr. Geoff Frost, MD, Alberta Neurologic Centre, discusses Electromyography (EMG). A critical tool in the modern physician’s tool belt, EMG tests/studies are used to diagnose problems with nerves in the arms and legs. Dr. Frost will review what an EMG test is, how it works, when it gets used, and what the results mean. He will explain the anatomy of the nerves in our arms and legs, and conclude by using the example of Charcot-Marie-Tooth Disease (a genetic nerve problem) to illustrate how EMGs help physician figure out nerve problems.
EMG Studies – Topic Timings
Note: these timings will direct you to YouTube Video.
- 00:00:10 Introduction
- 00:00:22 The Ins and Outs of EMG
- 00:02:42 Required Disclosures & Setting the Stage
- 00:04:43 Presentation Objectives
- 00:05:15 Visual Language of the presentation
- – Words in red are key definitions
- – Words in green are key clinical pearls
- – Words in Pink are key anatomy facts
- 00:06:19 Electro Diagnostic Testing: What is it?
- 00:08:48 Detour into Core Human Anatomy: Nerves
- 00:10:01 Anatomy: Human Nervous System
- 00:10:53 Electrodiagnostic Testing (EDx): what is it?
- 00:11:45 What makes up an EDx?
- 00:13:30 Nerve Conduction Studies
- 00:19:16 Anatomy: The Point of a Nerve
- 00:24:32 Anatomy: Axons and Myelin
- 00:25:51 Anatomy: Saltatory Conduction
- 00:27:01 Nerves, Neurons, & Myelin
- 00:30:04 Conduction Velocity & Amplitude
- 00:31:21 EDx: Components, Filling in the Blanks
- 00:32:36 Question on: Stenosis
- 00:33:40 Question on: Covid & Vaccine injury
- 00:35:11 Question on: How does EMG assist with GBS
- 00:35:47 Question on: Myofascial Pain Syndrome
- 00:36:11 Question on: How does EMG assist with CMT
- 00:36:59 Question on: Neck injury
- 00:37:31 Electromyography
- 00:42:05 EDx: Components, Filling in the Blanks
- 00:43:01 Repetitive Nerve Stimulation (RNS)
- 00:48:25 Important Limitations
- 00:53:12 A few Practical Points
About Dr. Frost
Dr. Geoff Frost completed his undergraduate and master’s degrees in engineering at the University of Toronto. After spending time working as an engineer, he eventually found his way into an operating room at the Toronto General Hospital, and the rest, as they say, is history. Since his time in Toronto, he has spent his work life bouncing between biomedical engineering start up companies and his medical career. He completed his medical degree at McMaster University and then his residency in physiatry at the University of British Columbia. He was drawn to physiatry as it seemed like a perfect match of his interests in both engineering and medicine.
Geoff continues to live a double life as both a physician and engineer. As a physician, he focuses on the intricacies of nerve and muscle problems. As an engineer, his latest project is all about helping children with Spinal Muscular Atrophy enjoy physical play.
When not at work, Geoff loves a good board game, playing hockey, going for hikes, and skiing in the mountains.
Other CNA Resources:
- Dr. Geoff Frost – Exercise for Neuromuscular Conditions
- Causes of Neuropathy
- What is a Physiatrist with Dr. S. Plamondon