The nerve impulses are then recorded and stored for analysis. The handheld stimulator sends a small electrical impulse to specific nerves that are chosen based on the nature of your complaints. In a nerve conduction study, small surface electrodes are placed upon your skin and specific nerves in your arm, leg, back or neck are stimulated using a tiny handheld stimulator. They provide objective documentation for many suspected diagnoses such as carpal tunnel syndrome, cubital tunnel syndrome, tarsal tunnel syndrome, cervical radiculopathy, or lumbar radiculopathy and also help to rule out superimposed conditions that can contribute to your primary complaints. These tests can determine whether ongoing nerve injury or muscle damage is contributing to your current symptoms. The EMG test procedure measures the electrical activity within the muscles that those specific nerves supply signals to. Nerve conduction studies measure both the speed and the size of the electrical signals that are being transmitted by specific nerves in your body.

Toxic, Idiopathic, and Other PolyneuropathiesĮMG/NCS Testing consists of two parts: What:Įlectromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies (NCS) are used to indicate how well your nerves and muscles are working.

Ulnar Neuropathy at the Elbow / Cubital Tunnel Syndrome.

Traumatic injuries caused by auto accidents.

Nerve Conduction and Electromyography testing is used to assess and identify:

Ruling out other causes or factors than could be involved in a disease process.

Detecting injury progression or regression.

These tests are performed by Board Certified Physical Therapists, specially trained neurologists, or specially trained psychiatrists. Here is some information on what to expect.Īn EMG / Nerve Conduction Study measures the electrical signals in both the nerve and muscles of the body to help your physician and healthcare team identify the source of your complaint. Your doctor has ordered an EMG and NCS Test.

In the case or your medical doctor, such conservative treatments can include medication, pain injections or physical therapy. This test helps to identify the location and severity of conditions that cause pain, numbness or weakness and help your healthcare provider to determine ways to provide effective treatment and pain relief.

Anyone with complaints of weakness, numbness, burning or tingling is a good candidate for an EMG/NCS (Electromyography / Nerve Conduction Studies). The first step to addressing any pain, numbness or weakness is to identify its source, area, and behavior. Would an EMG / Nerve Conduction Study help your pain condition?

How painful is an emg nerve test