An EMG (Electromyography) Test is to rule out nerve or nerve root problems. The EMG test consists of two components: The nerve conduction studies (NCS's) and the needle examination.


Nerve Conduction Studies

NCS's show how well the electrical signals are traveling along the nerve. This is done by applying small electrical shocks directly to the nerve and recording the signal over the muscle. These shocks cause a quick, mild, tingling feeling. It is generally perceived as not really painful.


Needle EMG (Electromyography)

For this part of the exam, a small thin sterile disposable needle is inserted into a few muscles to see if there are any problems. There will be a small amount of pain when the needle is inserted. The electrical signals will be analyzed for problems

​How long does an EMG take?

The test usually take 20 to 90 minutes. You can do all your normal activities after the test is completed. Pain over the area where the needle has been inserted may last up to 2 to 3 days.

​Frequently Asked Questions

What Is An EMG?

Our consultations vary in length. Typically, consultations take from 15 to 90 minutes to complete.

What Is A Physiatrist?

How Long Does A Consultation Take?

Where Are You Located?

Information about our location, including a print-out of driving directions, came be found on our Contact page

Call Us:  519-652-2141

Dr. Michel Lacerte ​

Physiatrists, or rehabilitation physicians, are nerve, muscle, and bone experts who treat injuries or illnesses that affect how you move.


Rehabilitation physicians are medical doctors who have completed training in the medical specialty of physical medicine and rehabilitation (PM&R). Specifically, rehabilitation physicians:

  • Diagnose and treat pain
  • Restore maximum function lost through injury, illness or disabling conditions
  • Treat the whole person, not just the problem area
  • Lead a team of medical professionals
  • Provide non-surgical treatments
  • Explain your medical problems and treatment/prevention plan


The job of a rehabilitation physician is to treat any disability resulting from disease or injury, from sore shoulders to spinal cord injuries. The focus is on the development of a comprehensive program for putting the pieces of a person's life back together after injury or disease – without surgery.

Rehabilitation physicians take the time needed to accurately pinpoint the source of an ailment. They then design a treatment plan that can be carried out by the patients themselves or with the help of the rehabilitation physician’s medical team. This medical team might include other physicians and health professionals, such as neurologists, orthopedic surgeons, and physical therapists. By providing an appropriate treatment plan, rehabilitation physicians help patients stay as active as possible at any age. Their broad medical expertise allows them to treat disabling conditions throughout a person’s lifetime.