Nerve conduction studies (NCS) & Electromyography (EMG)

What are nerve conduction studies and electromyography?

 

Nerve conduction studies (NCS) and electromyography (EMG) are tests done to diagnose peripheral nerve problems and certain muscle diseases. NCS and EMG are two separate tests which may be done during the same appointment. These tests are done by a specialist physician in conjunction with a trained technologist. Your doctor will determine which test(s) you require during your appointment based on your symptoms.

NCS/EMG may be requested if you have symptoms or signs of a nerve or muscle problem. This may include, but is not limited to, numbness, tingling, weakness, muscle pain, muscle twitching, and muscle cramping.

Nerve conduction studies are done by applying stickers to your skin and applying a small/light electrical stimulus through the skin to a nerve in your arm or leg to determine the health of the nerve. The response from the nerve is recorded on a computer and interpreted by the physician.

Electromyography records a signal from a muscle which the physician selects based on your symptoms. This can determine the health of your peripheral nerves and muscles. If deemed necessary, EMG is performed by a physician who inserts a small electrode resembling an acupuncture needle into muscle tissue for approximately 30 seconds where it records electrical activity. The vast majority of patients tolerate this test very well.

How do I get an appointment for NCS/EMG?

 

Any physician (primary care or specialist) or nurse practitioner may refer you to us for NCS/EMG testing and clinical consultation. A clinical consultation from a physician accompanies every electrodiagnostic test.

How do I prepare for my appointment?

Please bring a list of your medications and health conditions/prior surgeries with you to give to the physician.

Please refrain from applying lotion or cream to your skin the day of your appointment, as these products can interfere with the test recording. Keeping your skin as clean as possible will improve the quality of the test.

Wear clothing that allows easy access to the body part what will be studied. Please bring a pair of shorts and a short-sleeved shirt to your appointment. If you forget, you will be given a gown to change into if necessary.

Eat normally and take your usual medications unless directed otherwise. If you are being tested for myasthenia gravis and take mestinon, you will be asked not to take your dose on the day of the test. Please tell the physician during your appointment if you have a bleeding or clotting disorder.

Please arrive 15-20 minutes before your appointment to allow time for parking and registration.

When do I get my results?

 

The physician will verbally share the results of your test with you at the end of your appointment. Your results will be communicated in writing back to the care provider who referred you for the test.

How long will my appointment last?

 

All appointments include clinical consultation as well as electrodiagnostic testing. The length of your appointment will vary depending upon your symptoms and the testing anticipated. The majority of appointments last either 45 or 60 minutes.

Specialist:

Dr. Alison Anton, Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation