EMG & TBI Evaluations

Q: What is the difference between EMG and TBI evaluations?

EMG evaluates nerve and muscle health, while TBI assessments focus on brain function after head injuries.

Q: Are EMG and TBI evaluations painful?

EMG testing involves mild discomfort from needle insertion, while TBI evaluations are non-invasive and primarily involve cognitive assessments.

Dr. Derek DeCagna offers expert EMG and TBI evaluations at Gerling Spine Care & Research Institute. Using advanced diagnostic tools, he provides non-invasive assessments for neurological and musculoskeletal disorders in New York and New Jersey.

Gerling Spine Care & Research Institute: Expert EMG & TBI Evaluations with Dr. Derek DeCagna

At Gerling Spine Care & Research Institute, we are committed to delivering high-quality, comprehensive care to our patients. Led by Dr. Derek DeCagna, a skilled Chiropractic Electrodiagnostician, our EMG and TBI evaluation services are designed to diagnose and treat complex neurological and musculoskeletal disorders. With Dr. DeCagna’s extensive training and expertise in electrodiagnostic medicine, we ensure that every patient receives accurate and effective evaluations for their specific condition. Our goal is to provide non-invasive, reliable testing that leads to better treatment plans and optimal patient outcomes.

What are EMG & TBI Evaluations?

EMG (Electromyography) and TBI (Traumatic Brain Injury) evaluations are diagnostic procedures used to assess nerve function, muscle health, and the impact of brain injuries. EMG testing involves measuring the electrical activity of muscles through needle insertion and nerve conduction velocity (NCV) studies to diagnose conditions like radiculopathy, neuropathy, and muscle disorders. TBI evaluations use advanced tools to assess brain function following head trauma, determining the extent of cognitive impairment, and developing a treatment plan based on severity.
These evaluations are non-invasive, meaning they don’t require surgery, and can be performed in an outpatient setting, providing quick results that help in diagnosing a variety of neurological and musculoskeletal conditions.

Dr. DeCagna will perform comprehensive testing for Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI) and EMG at our locations below:

Doctor explaining spinal anatomy to a patient using a model of a human spine

Benefits of EMG & TBI Evaluations

EMG and TBI evaluations offer numerous benefits for patients dealing with neurological and musculoskeletal conditions:

Accurate Diagnosis: Provides clear insights into nerve and muscle function, allowing for an accurate diagnosis of neuromuscular and brain conditions.
Non-invasive Testing: Both procedures are minimally invasive and performed in-office, ensuring comfort and quick recovery.
Treatment Planning: Helps guide treatment decisions by pinpointing the exact causes of symptoms, whether related to nerve damage, muscle issues, or traumatic brain injury.
Improved Outcomes: Early diagnosis through EMG and TBI evaluations allows for timely intervention, reducing the potential for long-term complications.

Am I a Good Candidate for EMG & TBI Evaluations?

You may be a good candidate for EMG and TBI evaluations if you are experiencing symptoms such as:

Chronic or sudden muscle weakness
Pain, numbness, or tingling in your extremities
Difficulty with coordination or balance
Cognitive impairments or memory issues following a head injury
Diagnosis or treatment of radiculopathy, neuropathy, or other musculoskeletal disorders

These evaluations are particularly beneficial for those who have experienced head trauma or have ongoing musculoskeletal or neurological symptoms that haven’t been clearly diagnosed.

Dr. Gerling holding a spine model and explaining spinal structure during a patient consultation.

What to Expect During EMG & TBI Evaluations

During EMG testing, you will be asked to relax while small, sterile needles are inserted into the muscles. These needles measure the electrical activity, and the procedure may involve brief electrical stimulation of nerves.

For TBI evaluations, Dr. DeCagna will perform a series of tests to assess cognitive and neurological functions, potentially including imaging or other diagnostic tools depending on the severity of the injury.

Both tests are typically completed within an hour, and you can expect to return home the same day.

EMG & TBI Recovery and Results

Recovery after EMG testing is minimal. Some mild discomfort or bruising may occur at the needle insertion sites, but it typically resolves within a day or two. TBI evaluation recovery primarily involves follow-up consultations to review test results and discuss treatment options.

The results from your EMG and TBI evaluations will be analyzed by Dr. DeCagna, who will guide you through the next steps. Whether it’s further treatment, therapy, or lifestyle adjustments, you’ll receive a clear, personalized care plan.

Why Choose Gerling Spine Care & Research Institute for EMG & TBI Evaluations?

At Gerling Spine Care & Research Institute, we stand out for our commitment to patient-centered care and expertise in neuromuscular and neurological diagnostics. Led by Dr. Derek DeCagna, a board-certified Electrodiagnostician, our clinic offers:

Expert care from a highly trained specialist: Dr. DeCagna’s extensive training in both EMG and TBI diagnostics ensures the highest level of expertise.
Non-invasive and effective evaluations: Our procedures provide patients with reliable, efficient results, without the need for invasive surgeries.
Comprehensive care plan: We work closely with our patients to create individualized treatment plans, collaborating with other healthcare providers to ensure well-rounded care.

Choosing Gerling Spine Care & Research Institute means you are partnering with a team that values your health and wellbeing, providing you with the best diagnostic and treatment options available.

5 FAQs about EMG & TBI Evaluations

What is the difference between EMG and TBI evaluations?

EMG evaluates nerve and muscle health, while TBI assessments focus on brain function after head injuries.

Are EMG and TBI evaluations painful?

EMG testing involves mild discomfort from needle insertion, while TBI evaluations are non-invasive and primarily involve cognitive assessments.

How long does it take to get results from these evaluations?

Results are typically available within a few days to a week, depending on the complexity of the tests.

Can I drive home after an EMG or TBI evaluation?

Yes, both procedures are outpatient and don’t require sedation, so you can drive yourself home afterward.

How often should I get an EMG or TBI evaluation?

These evaluations are recommended when experiencing symptoms of nerve damage, muscle issues, or following a head injury. Dr. DeCagna will provide guidance on follow-up care if necessary.