Which medical test is used to specifically detect issues with nerve function?

The electromyography (EMG) is specifically designed to evaluate and measure the electrical activity of muscles and the nerve cells that control them, known as motor neurons. When a nerve is damaged or not functioning properly, the electrical signals it sends can be altered. Therefore, an EMG provides crucial insights into nerve function and can help diagnose conditions such as neuropathies, muscle disorders, and issues related to nerve compression.

Discography involves injecting contrast dye into the spinal discs to assess disc abnormalities, which doesn't directly measure nerve function. A myelogram is a type of imaging that uses contrast material to visualize the spinal canal and is typically used to identify problems such as herniated discs or spinal stenosis. A bone scan is utilized primarily to detect bone diseases and conditions, such as infections or cancer, but does not assess nerve function.