What is the cost of an EMG test?

Asked by: Martina Ondricka  |  Last update: January 3, 2026
Score: 4.2/5 (75 votes)

Procedure Details On MDsave, the cost of an Electromyogram (EMG) - two limbs ranges from $277 to $770. Those on high deductible health plans or without insurance can shop, compare prices and save.

Are EMG covered by insurance?

EMG tests and nerve conduction studies are typically covered by insurance; however, it is important to verify coverage as well as any co-payments required. EMG tests can cause anxiety; when placed correctly on the muscles, the electrodes can be uncomfortable.

Are EMG tests worth it?

EMG results are often necessary to help diagnose or rule out a number of conditions such as: Muscle disorders, such as muscular dystrophy or polymyositis. Diseases affecting the connection between the nerve and the muscle, such as myasthenia gravis.

Does EMG show nerve damage?

An EMG can help diagnose several injuries or diseases that affect your motor nerves and muscles.

What is the EMG test price?

The cost of an EMG test in Delhi ranges from INR 3000 to INR 5000, depending upon the city, diagnostic centre and severity of the disease. For a quality scan with 100% accuracy of reports, always choose the best diagnostic centre.

EMG Test Explained

23 related questions found

What is the cost of EMG test?

How Much Does an Electromyogram (EMG) - one limb Cost? On MDsave, the cost of an Electromyogram (EMG) - one limb ranges from $206 to $466. Those on high deductible health plans or without insurance can shop, compare prices and save.

What happens when EMG is positive?

Abnormal EMG Test Results

This would indicate nerve issues affecting the muscles or muscle damage. Remember that positive EMG test results may not pinpoint an exact diagnosis. An EMG test is only one piece of the diagnosis puzzle, but may help rule out certain conditions and narrow the possibilities.

What is the downside of EMG?

The most serious complication of needle EMG is pneumothorax, depending on the muscle examined, but overall this is rare, and clinically significant infection is very rare.

What is the most common symptom of nerve damage?

The most common symptoms of a nerve condition include: A feeling of numbness, pain, tingling, or burning in your limbs or extremities. Unexplained weakness, loss of muscle strength, or paralysis.

What diseases does a normal EMG rule out?

An EMG can be used to diagnose a wide variety of neuromuscular diseases, motor problems, nerve injuries, or degenerative conditions, such as:
  • Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)
  • Carpal tunnel syndrome.
  • Cervical spondylosis.
  • Guillain-Barre syndrome.
  • Lambert-Eaton syndrome.
  • Muscular dystrophy.
  • Myasthenia gravis.

Which is better MRI or EMG?

A spinal MRI is more accurate for visualizing compressed nerves when pain is the only symptom. A study examining clinical suspicion versus electrodiagnostic findings for radiculopathy found that a normal exam can still find an abnormal EMG and vice versa and therefore both are useful in the diagnostic armamentarium.

How many needles are inserted for an EMG test?

The skin will be cleansed with an antiseptic solution. Next, a fine, sterile needle will be inserted into the muscle. A ground electrode will be positioned under your arm or leg. Five or more needle insertions may be necessary for the test.

What can throw off an EMG test?

Certain drugs that act on the nervous system (such as muscle relaxants) can interfere with electromyography results. You may need to stop taking these three to six days before the test. Have had bleeding problems or are taking blood thinning drugs, such as warfarin (Coumadin®) or heparin. Have a pacemaker.

What kind of doctor gives an EMG?

Electromyography (EMG) is a form of electrodiagnostic testing that is used to study nerve and muscle function. It is commonly performed by a physiatrist or neurologist with special training for this procedure.

What happens if EMG is abnormal?

When it contracts, its electrical activity may make abnormal patterns. An abnormal EMG result may be a sign of a muscle or nerve disorder, such as: Polymyositis. This is an inflammatory muscle disease that causes decreased muscle power.

What drink is good for nerve pain?

By incorporating ginger root into your diet, you may experience reduced nerve pain and improved overall nerve health. There are several ways to incorporate ginger root into your daily routine to help alleviate nerve pain: Steeping fresh ginger root in hot water to make ginger tea.

What is often mistaken for neuropathy?

This affects the spinal vertebrae, tendons, and intervertebral discs. Radiculopathy is often mistaken for neuropathy because both conditions cause similar symptoms, such as pain, weakness, numbness, and tingling.

What are the worst foods for neuropathy?

Foods that are high in sugar – Sugar can aggravate nerve pain and discomfort, so it is best to avoid foods that are high in sugar. This includes sugary snacks, desserts, and processed foods. Fried foods – Fried foods are unhealthy and can worsen neuropathy symptoms.

How much does an EMG cost?

Procedure Details

On MDsave, the cost of an Electromyogram (EMG) - two limbs ranges from $277 to $770. Those on high deductible health plans or without insurance can shop, compare prices and save. Read more about how MDsave works.

Why was my EMG so painful?

Electromyography (EMG) is used to evaluate peripheral nervous system lesions. Pain is commonly associated with EMG, because the procedure involves the use of needles and electric shock.

Can an EMG affect your heart?

This study shows that needle-EMG moderately hurts but does not increase blood-pressure or heart-rate, irrespective of known arterial hypertension.

Can nerve damage be cured?

Some nerve damage can be cured, but most of them cannot be cured.

Does ALS show up on EMG?

Electrical activity measured by EMG, however, often identifies lower motor neuron abnormalities in ALS. EMG test results can be helpful when ALS is suspected, but clinical criteria for definite diagnosis are not fulfilled.