Monograph: Evaluation of persons with suspected lumbosacral and cervical radiculopathy: Electrodiagnostic assessment and implications for treatment and outcomes (Part I)-Article

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Needle electromyography (EMG) is the most important test for confirming the presence of lumbosacral and cervical radiculopathy. It has high specificity and moderate sensitivity. A six-muscle screen, including one paraspinal muscle and representing all root levels, is optimal for identifying radiculopathies. Paraspinal muscles should be tested whenever possible because they have a high yield for identification. Needle EMG can also help exclude other conditions like entrapment neuropathies and polyneuropathy. It is important to note that needle EMG screens for radiculopathies should not be performed in patients with upper motor neuron disorders or peripheral neuropathies, as these conditions can produce abnormal needle EMG findings. Electrodiagnostic testing should also be used alongside imaging studies to support diagnosis and guide treatment decisions. Overall, needle EMG is a valuable tool for evaluating individuals with suspected radiculopathy, but it should be interpreted in conjunction with clinical findings and other diagnostic tests.

Keywords

needle electromyography

EMG

radiculopathy

specificity

sensitivity

paraspinal muscle

entrapment neuropathies

polyneuropathy

electrodiagnostic testing

imaging studies

electromyography