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EMG

Electrodiagnostic (EDX) studies (sometimes called EMG for electromyography) are a commonly used technique to test the function of muscles and nerves.  These studies are ordered by physicians to help determine the cause of back or neck pain, numbness/tingling and strength loss.  Commonly diagnosed conditions include “pinched nerves” (radiculopathies), peripheral nerve injuries and muscle disease.

They are usually two parts: one testing nerves (referred to as “nerve conduction studies”) and the other testing muscles (referred to as “electromyography”).  These studies allow the physician to learn how nerve and muscles are functioning.  This testing process often helps to narrow down the possible causes of back/body pain and muscle weakness.

Nerve conduction studies
The physical therapist performs these studies by placing sensors over nerves in the arms and legs and then stimulating those nerves with small electric sensations.  Most patients report that these studies are “uncomfortable” but not necessarily painful.  The P.T. is able to see how fast or slow nerves are functioning.  Comparisons are made to normal values to see if see the nerves are working properly.

Electromyography (EMG)
EMG is performed by placing small needles in the muscles of the arm, leg or back to directly evaluate the electrical activity caused by a muscle contraction.  Most patients state that the needles feel like a small cramp or a splinter in the muscle.  EMG allows the physical therapist to evaluate how well muscles are functioning.  In addition, the EMG study can help determine if muscles are receiving the proper signal from nerves.

 

CAROLINA EMG SPECIALISTS RESPONSIBLITIES

  • Carolina EMG Specialists will provide comprehensive electrodiagnostic testing on-site at your medical facility using licensed, ABPTS board-certified physical therapists with doctoral level training.

  •  This testing is identical to the studies performed by the neurologists you currently refer out to. 

  • We use only traditional electrodiagnostic testing supplies and equipment (Cadwell Sierra Wedge II, Cadwell Laboratories, Inc./Kennewick, WA).

  • The study will be performed and interpreted by the PT performing the examination.  The physicians of the medical practice will not be responsible for interpreting the study. 

  • Reports will be generated on the day of testing and delivered to the appropriate contact (physician, medical records, etc.). 

  • Carolina EMG Specialists will also complete the encounter form including appropriate CPT codes, modifiers, and ICD-9 coding that supports medical necessity. 

  • We are an independent contractor and maintain our own malpractice insurance.  Copies of all required licenses, certifications, and insurance coverage will be provided in our New Account Packet.

MEDICAL PRACTICE RESPONSIBILITIES

  • The implementation of this electrodiagnostic testing program will be structured as an ancillary service that is “incident to” the physician’s medical practice. Therefore, billing will be done by the medical practice using the physician’s provider number and/or tax ID number. 

  • The medical practice will be responsible for providing a treatment room and table.

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