Journal CME, February 2024: Anatomical study and proposed EMG technique for the cervical paraspinal muscles-Journal CME, February 2024: Anatomical study and proposed EMG technique for the cervical paraspinal muscles

Journal CME, February 2024: Anatomical study and proposed EMG technique for the cervical paraspinal muscles

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There is currently no standardized technique for electromyography (EMG) examination of the cervical paraspinal muscles, making it challenging to diagnose cervical radiculopathy. This study reviewed anatomy textbooks to develop a standardized EMG technique and scoring system for the cervical region. The researchers found 11 appropriate anatomy texts that described the origin, insertion, innervation, and number of levels spanned by the cervical paraspinal muscles, with some variations in details. Based on this understanding, a proposed cervical paraspinal mapping technique was developed, involving needle insertions at specific locations and scoring the presence of positive waves or fibrillations. However, this technique must be validated through clinical research to determine its range of normal values, reproducibility, and effectiveness in diagnosing various disorders. The authors also emphasized the need for further research to establish the clinical significance of cervical paraspinal EMG findings and their impact on treatment decisions.

Keywords

electromyography

EMG examination

cervical paraspinal muscles

diagnose cervical radiculopathy

anatomy textbooks

standardized EMG technique

scoring system

cervical region

cervical paraspinal mapping technique

clinical research