I have had an EMG done before bilaterally. It was only minimal pain for me. I am not afraid of needles though. I did find that I would watch the doctor insert the needles and it made it a little easier to tolerate. A neurologist did my test and asked a lot of questions while he was doing it. I do have carpal tunnel in both wrists the right is worse than the left. My orthopedic doctor gave me wrist braces to sleep with because it can put pressure on the area and make it worse. The neurologist told me that the RA was causing inflammation which caused the pins and needles feeling in my hands and arms. They also checked my head and neck with the EMG because I have a nerve impinged due to a herniated disc. That was the difficult test for me as it was a more sensitive area. I know it may seem scary but it is worth it to know what is going on with your body and to help figure out the next steps for your treatment.

Tracy,
I have not had this procedure. As to your second part, you really need to ask your doctor, who is going to perform the test, as sometimes they want you off everything first.
I hope this helps.