EMG/NCS studies are used to diagnose disorders of nerves, nerve roots, neuromuscular junction, and muscles. Typically, the study is ordered for symptoms of neck pain, back pain, limb weakness, numbness, tingling, or muscle aches.
The procedure takes approximately 30 to 90 minutes to complete depending on how many limbs are tested. Please arrive 15 minutes early for in-office preparation for the test.
PART I: Nerve conduction study: This part of the study is performed with the patient resting comfortably on an exam table. A stimulator is held against the skin on the arm or leg and sends a small, brief, harmless electrical shock along a nerve. Patients describe this as a brief jolt. Recording electrodes are taped to the skin to detect the electrical signal. The health of the nerve is evaluated by recording how fast the electrical impulse travels through it.
PART II: Electromyography: This part of the study analyzes the electrical firing patters of various muscles which will be displayed on a computer screen. The test involves inserting small, fine needle electrodes into various muscles to record their electrical firing patters. The number of needle insertions depends on the number of muscles that need to be examined. When a nerve going to a muscle is injured or if the muscle itself is diseased, the electrical firing pattern of that muscle changes.
Patient Instructions
1. Eat your normal meal.
2. Continue any medication you are taking unless otherwise instructed. Aspirin and Plavix are generally safe to take with this test.
3. You may bathe or shower the morning of the test but DO NOT use bath oils, lotion, or skin creams.
4. Please advise the doctor if you are taking any of the following prescription blood thinners.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do I need this test? What kind of information does this tell the doctor?
Symptoms such as pain, weakness, numbness and tingling can come from a variety of neurological causes. This test helps the doctor determine if the symptoms come from the nerve, neuromuscular junction, or muscle and it helps the doctor formulate a better treatment plan.
I hear this test is uncomfortable. Does it hurt?
Patients do complain of a mild temporary discomfort in the limb that is tested. Most people tolerate the test without any problems and rate it on the mild end of the discomfort scale.
When can I expect results?
The report is generally completed and given back to the ordering physician within one to two business days.
