EMG related anxiety and pain: A prospective study

Background: Electromyography (EMG) is a useful test, but unfortunately also painful. We frequently encounter patients who worry about its painful natu re, but tolerate it very well. Objectives: We evaluated anxiety levels of p atients referred for EMG to explore the possible correlating and contributi ng factors to high anxiety. Methods: A structured questionnaire, including the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory was completed by patients immediately bef ore EMG testing. Emergency hospitalized, and seriously ill patients were ex cluded. Results: Seventy-nine cases with ages ranging from 19-72 years (mea n 43) were included. Thirty-five (44%) patients had a high pre-test anxiety level. The likelihood of high anxiety was increased if the patient was wor ried about the test (p<0.001) or about other issues unrelated to the test o r underlying diagnosis (p<0.001), or was taking an anti-psychotic or anxiol ytic drug (p=0.008). The degree or source of knowledge regarding the rest p rocedure, did not affect the pre-test anxiety level. Conclusions: The infor mation about EMG testing received by patients in this group did not affect pre-test anxiety levels. The patient's expectations regarding the test did influence anxiety levels and this may reflect generalized anxiety regarding testing procedures or misinformation regarding the nature of the test, as patients in general reported a better than anticipated experience following the test.