Sometimes the damage can be told completely by the MRI. I was lucky in my case, that my second neruo surgeon did not want or do the EMG. He didn't think is was necessary after he looked at the MRI. Personally, I go for as little invasive testing as I can. I turned down multipal tests, lost a doctor over it, and still wound up with a fantastic surgeon who repaired my cervical spine. I just think in general too many tests are given. That second or third opinion, is the best route to go before you submit to the invasive tests. I hope all folks that have spinal issues will research every avenue there is before any kind of surgery. or submit to any kind of painful tests. I will keep all of us in my prayers. ginnie