Introduction: When “Normal” Doesn’t Feel Good Receiving a “normal” test result is usually a moment of relief. But if you are suffering from chronic back pain or shooting leg pain, being told your EMG (Electromyography) is normal can feel confusing, frustrating, or even invalidating. You might find yourself asking: If the test is normal, why […]
Back Pain but EMG Is Normal? Why You Still Hurt Read More »
We have all experienced it: you wake up after sleeping on your arm, and your hand feels “asleep.” It buzzes, prickles, and feels heavy. A few shakes later, the sensation returns. This is normal. But what happens when that feeling doesn’t go away? Or when it appears without a clear reason? In medical terms, we
Tingling and Numbness: When Should You See a Neurologist? Read More »
In clinical neurology, the history tells you what the pathology is, but the examination tells you where the lesion is. For medical students and residents preparing for exams (like the MRCP, Prometric or Boards), mastering stroke localization is not just about memorizing the Circle of Willis, it is about understanding the functional geography of the
Clinical Neurology Study Guide: Vascular Territories & Stroke Localization Read More »
Introduction If you have recently received the Shingrix vaccine and are feeling “wiped out” or noticing neurological sensations like headaches or dizziness, you are not alone. In my experience, Shingrix is known for being a “reactogenic” vaccine—meaning it has a strong ability to provoke an immune response. While this is a sign the vaccine is
Shingrix Neurological Side Effects: What Is Normal vs. When to Worry? Read More »
Introduction Receiving a diagnosis of peripheral neuropathy can feel overwhelming. Suddenly, the “pins and needles” or numbness you’ve been feeling has a name, but that doesn’t make the sensation any less frustrating. If you are reading this, you likely know what neuropathy is. What you really want to know is: How do I live with
Living Well with Peripheral Neuropathy: Your Daily Guide to Comfort and Safety Read More »
Epilepsy and seizure disorders remain one of the highest-yield topics on neurology board exams, including the USMLE Step 2 CK, the ABPN Neurology Boards, and residency in-service exams. Mastering this section requires more than just memorizing drugs; you must be able to recognize specific clinical vignettes, identify classic EEG patterns, and make rapid management decisions
Neurology Board Review: 10 High-Yield Epilepsy Questions Explained Read More »
The intersection of acute-onset psychiatric symptoms and neurological decline in young patients presents a critical diagnostic challenge. Prompt identification is vital for prognosis. Let’s review a classic clinical presentation and a highly specific neurophysiological biomarker that every neurologist, psychiatrist, and critical care specialist should recognize. The Clinical Picture A 17-year-old female is brought to the
Deconstructing the “Extreme Delta Brush” in Acute Autoimmune Encephalitis Read More »
Introduction If you are searching online hoping to understand why your doctor ordered a nerve conduction study, you are not alone. Leaving an appointment with a referral slip for a test you’ve never heard of can be unsettling. Why do you need this? Does it mean you have serious nerve damage? It is normal to
My Doctor Ordered a Nerve Conduction Study (NCS). What Are They Looking For? Read More »
Introduction If your doctor has recommended an Electromyography (EMG) test, you have likely already visited Google to ask the big question: “Is an EMG painful?” It is completely normal to be anxious. The internet is full of conflicting stories and forums where people share their worst experiences. However, the reality of the test is often
Is an EMG Test Painful? A Clinical Neurophysiologist Explains What to Really Expect Read More »
Neurology residency is a race against time. Between managing stroke codes, surviving 24-hour calls, and preparing for the RITE® exam, you rarely have the luxury of sitting down with a 500-page textbook. When you are standing in the ER at 3 AM with a complex patient, you need answers fast. You need tools that are
Top 10 Free Websites & Apps Every Neurology Resident Needs (2025 Toolkit) Read More »
