Should I See an Orthopedic or Neurology Specialist for EMG and X-Ray?

Q: Should I See an Orthopedic or Neurology Specialist for EMG and X-Ray?

Hello： 1. <br>X-rays and electromyography can be ordered by both orthopedic and neurology departments. <br>2. <br>Whether to perform a full-body X-ray should be considered in light of radiation exposure; it is advisable to discuss this after a comprehensive physical examination.

If both electromyography (EMG) and X-rays are required, should one consult an orthopedic specialist or a neurologist?

Symptoms: 1.
There is a difference in height between the two sides of the pelvis, with the right side being more prominent, causing discomfort when sitting.
2.
In addition to internal rotation of the right knee, there is also weakness in the muscles near the hip when squatting with the right leg, and there are sudden muscle spasms.
Forward bending and stretching the right leg also triggers this sensation (has been present for six months).
3.
There is a feeling of stiffness and discomfort when rotating the neck to the left (has been ongoing for over a month).
Regarding the above issues: 1.
Is a full-body X-ray necessary, and if an electromyography (EMG) is needed, can it be done in orthopedics, or do I need to see a neurologist separately? 2.
Is an MRI necessary? Thank you, Dr.
You Dianqi, attending physician, for your assistance.

Zhuang Xiansheng, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/06/11

Dr. You Dianqi reply Orthopedics

Hello: 1.
X-rays and electromyography can be ordered by both orthopedic and neurology departments.
2.
Whether to perform a full-body X-ray should be considered in light of radiation exposure; it is advisable to discuss this after a comprehensive physical examination.
3.
The necessity for an MRI should be determined based on your medical history, a thorough physical examination, and preliminary imaging results.
Thank you, and I wish you a speedy recovery.

Reply Date: 2019/06/11

More Info

When considering whether to see an orthopedic or neurology specialist for your symptoms, it’s essential to understand the nature of your issues and how they relate to the respective fields of medicine. Based on the symptoms you've described, including discomfort in your hips, knee rotation issues, muscle weakness, and neck discomfort, both specialties could potentially be relevant, but they focus on different aspects of your condition.

Orthopedic vs. Neurology
1. Orthopedic Specialist: Orthopedic doctors specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal disorders, which include bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, and muscles. Given your symptoms of discomfort in the hips and knee, as well as the muscle weakness and the sensation of your right leg being different from the left, an orthopedic evaluation may be beneficial. They can assess for structural issues, such as misalignment, arthritis, or injuries that could be causing your symptoms.

2. Neurology Specialist: Neurologists focus on the nervous system, including the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves. If your symptoms suggest nerve involvement, such as the muscle weakness and sudden muscle twitching you described, a neurologist would be the appropriate specialist to consult. They can perform tests like electromyography (EMG) to evaluate the electrical activity of your muscles and the health of the nerves that control them.

Diagnostic Tests
- X-Ray: An X-ray is typically used to visualize bones and can help identify fractures, dislocations, or degenerative changes in the joints. Depending on your symptoms, a targeted X-ray of the affected areas (like your hips and knees) may be sufficient rather than a full-body X-ray. Your orthopedic specialist can determine the necessity of this based on their examination.

- Electromyography (EMG): This test measures the electrical activity of muscles and can help diagnose conditions that affect muscle and nerve function. If you choose to see a neurologist, they can perform the EMG to assess for any nerve damage or neuromuscular disorders. Some orthopedic clinics may also offer EMG testing, but it’s essential to confirm this with the specific clinic.

- MRI: Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) provides detailed images of soft tissues, including muscles, ligaments, and nerves. If your orthopedic or neurology specialist suspects a more serious underlying issue, such as a herniated disc or other soft tissue injuries, they may recommend an MRI. This imaging can help visualize any abnormalities that might be contributing to your symptoms.

Recommendations
Given your symptoms, it may be beneficial to start with an orthopedic evaluation. They can assess your musculoskeletal alignment and any potential structural issues. If they suspect nerve involvement or if your symptoms do not improve with orthopedic treatment, they can refer you to a neurologist for further evaluation.

In summary, both specialists can play a role in diagnosing and treating your symptoms. It’s crucial to communicate all your symptoms clearly to whichever specialist you choose to see. They can then guide you on the appropriate tests, including X-rays, EMG, or MRI, based on their findings. Always feel free to ask questions about the necessity and purpose of any tests recommended, as understanding your health is an essential part of the process.

Similar Q&A

Which Specialist to See for Sacral Nerve Issues: Neurology or Orthopedics?

I think it might really be a problem with the lumbar nerve as the doctor mentioned! Which specialty should I see? Neurology or Orthopedics? However, I previously visited Dr. Hsieh Ching-Hsiang in the Orthopedic department at Yang Ming Hospital. He looked at the X-rays and said th...

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery
If a neurological issue is suspected, a neurologist should be the first choice. However, some orthopedic and rehabilitation specialists also have considerable experience with chronic pain. Wishing you a speedy recovery.

Should I See a Neurologist or a Rehabilitation Specialist for Hip Pain?

Hello, I fell a long time ago and injured my left hip. Since then, I've experienced a tingling sensation in my left hip. I consulted a neurologist who mentioned that there was nerve damage. In recent years, the pain has worsened to the point where it hurts even when walking ...

Dr. Li Yanheng reply Rehabilitation
Consider a rehabilitation medicine evaluation to check for any muscle compression of peripheral nerves.

Which Department to Visit for Electromyography and Cost Considerations?

Which department should I go to for an electromyography (EMG) test? Will it be out-of-pocket?

Dr. Guan Zaoxiang reply Rehabilitation
Electromyography (EMG) can generally be performed in both the neurology and rehabilitation departments; however, the EMG equipment at our hospital is currently out of order and is in the process of being procured.

Which Specialist to See for Leg Pain and Cramps?

You should see an orthopedic specialist or a neurologist for your symptoms.

Dr. Chen Bozhang reply Family Medicine
Hello! It is recommended to consult with a family medicine clinic first. Thank you!