Use of electromyography in seven injured wild birds.

Seven wild birds with traumatic injuries affecting the peripheral nervous system were evaluated with the aid of electromyography. Initially, electromyography was performed on these birds because of loss of motor control and muscle atrophy that could not be explained by clinical signs alone. It can be difficult to assess postural reactions and reflexes in these birds. Use of electromyography to provide prognostic information for rehabilitation potential had not been reported. Reviews in the literature indicate that electromyography in human beings helps when assessing prognosis in sports-related injuries. Because wild birds require nearly total function for complete rehabilitation, electromyographic findings of functional motor units or evidence of axonal degeneration can assist in determining their potential for release.