The Benefits of Electromyography
- Assess Nerve and Muscle Function
- Accurate Diagnosis of Neurological Conditions
- Minimally-invasive
- Quick and Efficient Procedure
Electromyography and Nerve Conduction Studies
Whether you’re facing nerve compression, muscle disorders, or other neurological concerns, electromyography gives your doctor the data they need to create an effective treatment plan.

Testing Your Muscle and Nerve Function
Electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies (NCS) are tests that measure muscle and nerve function. In most cases, both tests are performed. NCS is most often done first.
During NCS, mild electrical currents are applied to the skin on some parts of your body. This is done to see how quickly impulses travel between nerves.
EMG assesses muscle function. To do this, a fine needle is placed under your skin into the muscle being tested. This is repeated on other muscles. The needle allows the electrical activity in your muscles to be measured. No electrical currents are applied to the needle. During each test, wavy lines (waveforms) appear on a screen or on paper. These lines show how well your nerves and muscles work. These waveforms help to determine your test results.
Dr. David Russo, an accomplished Physiatrist and Pain Medicine Specialist, brings a wealth of expertise in managing and treating pain. He is triple board-certified in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Pain Medicine, and Addiction Medicine. Following an undergraduate degree from the University of California, Berkeley, Dr. Russo pursued his medical and graduate degrees at the University of North Texas Health Science Center. His postgraduate training includes a residency at the Mayo Clinic and a fellowship at the Oregon Health Sciences University. Dr. Russo is respected for his contributions to pain treatment and regenerative therapies research and development and his advisory roles in medico-legal and clinical risk management. His dedication to improving pain management underscores his commitment to patient care and professional development.
Areas treated: Cervical Spine (Not Upper Cervical or CCI)*, Foot & Ankle, Hand & Wrist, Hip, Knee, Lumbar Spine, Shoulder, Thoracic Spine
Dr. Trey Rigert, a distinguished Physiatrist, and Pain Management Physician holds dual board certifications in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation as well as Addiction Medicine. He embarked on his professional journey before the widespread acceptance of interventional pain management and chronic opioid therapies. He graduated from medical school in 1989 and completed his Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation residency at the University of Irvine in 1993. Dr. Rigert has extensive experience in medical directorship, including leading two inpatient physical rehabilitation programs and a comprehensive chronic pain program. As the founder of Columbia Pain Management, he exemplifies expertise in interventional pain care. He served as the Quality Medical Director at Providence Hood River Medical Center and previously held the position of President of the medical staff. Outside of his professional pursuits, he is devoted to his family, enjoys Hood River’s outdoor activities, engages in community service, and coaches a robotics team. Dr. Rigert’s passion for his work is palpable, driven by a continuous desire to improve patient care.
Areas treated: Cervical Spine (Not Upper Cervical or CCI)*, Elbow, Foot & Ankle, Hand & Wrist, Hip, Knee, Lumbar Spine, Shoulder, Thoracic Spine
Laura Scobie graduated from Emory University school of Medicine, Physician Assistant Program. She received her bachelor’s degree in physiology and neuroscience at University of California at San Diego. Laura has been a commissioner on the Oregon Pain Management commission for the past 6 years. She is also on the Prescription Drug Monitoring Program advisory commission as well as the Oregon Medical Associations Opioids Task Force.
Laura has lived in Hood River since 2003 and enjoys the gorge lifestyle. She and her family like to watch their kids play lacrosse and basketball, ride bikes and go out for dinner.

Are You a Candidate for Electromyography (EMG)?
Call us at 541-386-9500, or complete the form below and we’ll contact you to answer questions and help you set up an evaluation.
Electrodiagnostic Appointment Request Form
Schedule an EMG Appointment
With quick, reliable testing, you’ll be one step closer to understanding your health and finding the right solution. Connect with us today to diagnose the source of your pain and to implement a rapid treatment plan if necessary.
Clinic Locations
Columbia Pain Management, PC - Hood River
1010 10th Street
Hood River, OR 97031
Phone: 541-386-9500
Hours:
- Sat-Sun: Closed
- Mon-Fri: 8AM–5PM
Columbia Pain Management, PC - Milwaukie
6542 SE Lake Rd
Suite 101
Milwaukie, OR 97222
Phone: 503-654-5636
Oregon NeuroDiagnostic is a Division of Columbia Pain Management, PC