These typically include an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) of the neck, and sometimes of the head and lower spine, an EMG (electromyography) which tests nerve conduction, and a series of blood tests. Sometimes urine tests, genetic tests, or a lumbar puncture (also called a spinal tap) are also necessary.
http://www.massgeneral.org/als/patienteducation/DiagnosingALS.aspx
Electromyography/Nerve Conduction Study (EMG/NCS) is a two-part test to diagnose disease of the nerves and muscles. This test evaluates peripheral nerves.
http://apmspineandsports.com/diagnosis/electromyography-and-nerve-conduction-study/
The strength of the response also provides clues to help with diagnosis and to determine the extent of the disease. In ALS, the speed of the nerves is usually slowed, but compound muscle action potentials (CMAPs) may be decreased. EMG measures nerve impulses within the muscles.
http://www.healthcommunities.com/als/diagnosis.shtml
These motor neurons cause electrical activity in the muscle, which then causes a contraction or tightening of the muscle. An Electromyography (EMG) is done to find diseases that damage muscle tissue and nerves or the function between nerve and muscle. An EMG measures the electrical activity in muscles.
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Consulting with other types of doctors is a common experience that many patients have. Once the symptoms are recognized as a neurological problem, a neurologist will be consulted. A neurologist will perform a detailed physical examination that focuses on muscle strength, reflexes, coordination, and sensation.
http://www.massgeneral.org/als/patienteducation/DiagnosingALS.aspx
Although individuals experience symptoms differently, a common first response to feelings of muscular weakness, slurred speech or a change in ability to perform tasks such as buttoning clothes or tying shoes is to attribute these changes to “getting older.”.
http://www.massgeneral.org/als/patienteducation/DiagnosingALS.aspx
Blood, Urine and Other Tests Blood tests are used to look for evidence of other diseases whose symptoms are similar to early signs of ALS. These include tests for thyroid and parathyroid disease, vitamin B12 deficiency, HIV, hepatitis, auto-immune diseases, and some types of cancer.
http://www.massgeneral.org/als/patienteducation/DiagnosingALS.aspx
During the exam, the neurologist will look for typical features of ALS that may include: 1  Muscle weakness (which is often only on one side of the body, such as one arm or one leg) as well as changes in the character of the individual’s voice (especially slurred words or slowness of speech).
http://www.massgeneral.org/als/patienteducation/DiagnosingALS.aspx
The diagnosis is usually based on a complete neurological examination and clinical tests. A neurological exam usually shows evidence of muscle weakness (localized or widespread, depending on the extent of the disease). The exam also reveals muscle atrophy.
http://www.healthcommunities.com/als/diagnosis.shtml
Diagnostic Tests for ALS. Nerve conduction velocity (NCV) and electromyography (EMG) help diagnose nerve and muscle disorders. These tests, which can be used in combination, are often referred to as EMG/NCV studies. NCV is administered before EMG and measures the speed at which nerves transmit electrical signals.
http://www.healthcommunities.com/als/diagnosis.shtml
what can emg diagnose
Electromyography can diagnose disease of the nerves and muscles. Electromyography can diagnose diseases of the nerves and muscles.