emg nerve test painful side affects after rear end accident

They can reduce pain if the pinched nerve becomes irritated or inflamed. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are a type of pain relievers. Sometimes, traction can help gently stretch the joints in the neck and relieve pressure on the nerve. Exercises aim to strengthen and stretch the neck muscles, thereby improving flexibility. Physical therapy can help with a pinched nerve in the neck.

However, a person should not wear a cervical collar for more than 2 weeks, as it can cause the neck muscles to weaken. ImmobilizationĪ soft cervical collar can help minimize the amount of movement in the neck and thus reduce irritation of the nerve root. If the symptoms of cervical radiculopathy do not clear up, there are nonsurgical and surgical treatments available. However, it is common for the symptoms of a pinched nerve in the neck to return over time. In the case of a suspected pinched nerve in the neck, an EMG can help doctors determine which nerve has become irritated or compressed and where exactly the compression occurs.įor many people, pain from a pinched nerve in the neck will resolve on its own within 4 weeks. Sometimes, doctors will order this test to determine whether a nerve or group of nerves is functioning properly. EMGĪn electromyelography (EMG) test measures the speed of transmitting electrical impulses along a nerve. They will also allow doctors to see whether a herniated disk is causing compression of the nerve or the spinal cord. MRI scans can show how severe the nerve compression in the neck is. With the use of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), doctors can see the vertebrae, soft tissues, and nerves in greater detail than with other scan types. Sometimes, doctors order them in the workup of a person with a suspected pinched nerve. CT scanĬomputerized tomography (CT) scans show bone in more detail than an X-ray. It can also demonstrate narrowing of the foramen and disc spaces between the vertebrae. X-rayĪn X-ray is one type of imaging tests that can aid in the diagnosis of a pinched nerve in the neck.Īn X-ray can show the alignment of the vertebrae in the neck. The Spurling test involves extending the neck, rotating the head to the side where the symptoms occur, and applying gentle downward pressure to the top of the head. There are several tests that doctors can perform to help them diagnose a pinched nerve in the neck. Oftentimes, they will also ask the person to move their arms and neck to see where they are experiencing weakness or pain. Typically, to reach a diagnosis, doctors will ask about symptoms and then examine the neck, shoulders, arms, and hands.

Emg nerve test painful side affects after rear end accident