Services  Electrodiagnostics (EMG & NCS)

Patients referred to our Electrodiagnostic services will have a consultation with our physiatrist about their nerve and or muscle condition first and then test are done afterwards if necessary.

What is an EMG?

Electrodiagnostics, including both nerve conduction studies (NCS) and electromyography (EMG), are studies used to help diagnose nerve and muscle diseases. 

NCSs demonstrate how the body’s electrical signals travel through the nerve. We use a small electrical shock placed on the skin that activates the nerve and we record how the nerve is working.

For EMG, we use a small, thin, needle electrode that is placed into muscles to help understand the nerve or muscle issue.

Do I need a referral?

Yes. A physician referral is required to receive an EMG test.  Patients referred to our Electrodiagnostic services will have a consultation with our physiatrist first and then tests are done afterwards if necessary.  The EMG Testing Referral, found in the link below, may be used or the referring physician can fax their own referral form to 416-479-8688.

EMG Testing Referral

What to bring?

Bring a list of all your medications, and tell your EMG doctor if you are taking any blood thinners, have a pacemaker, or a bleeding disorder.

Bring shorts and/or tank top depending on the area of the body being tested. 

Wear loose clothing.

How should I prepare for the test?

Do not use body lotion on the day of your test.

You may go about your regular daily activities (eating, working, driving, exercising, etc) before and after the test. There are no lasting side effects to the tests.

What else should I know before I go to my appointment? 

Some tests can take up to 2 hours to complete.   

The EMG doctor will discuss your test result with you once the examination is completed. The results will also be sent to your referring doctor. 

Location

EMG Testing Clinic Location

Athlete's Care Yonge & Eglinton

2401 Yonge Street, Suite LL01

Toronto, ON M3H 4P1

tel: 416-544-9065

fax: 416-479-8688

Dr. Kevin Hsu is a specialist in physical medicine and rehabilitation (physiatry) and completed his residency training at the University of Toronto. He is a Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians & Surgeons of Canada and a Canadian Society of Clinical Neurophysiologists Diplomate in Electromyography (EMG).   Dr. Hsu is currently a staff physiatrist at Humber River Hospital and West Park Healthcare Centre with a special interest in musculoskeletal medicine and nerve injuries.  He previously competed as a varsity wrestler at McMaster University and now stays active playing basketball and golf. He is also an avid sports fan and is patiently awaiting the next Leafs Stanley Cup parade.