NCS/EMG

NCS: A nerve conduction study (NCS) is a test that measures the speed and strength of electrical activity in a nerve.

EMG: Electromyography (EMG) measures and records the electrical activity of a muscle. The test can record a muscle's electrical activity at rest or during a muscle contraction.

Prior to Test

• Tell your doctor about the medications you are taking

• Don’t put oil, cream or lotion to the body or extremities.

• Don’t shave the legs prior to the test.

• Tell the doctor if you are sensitive to electric current or you have fear of needles.

• Take normal diet prior to the test.

Description of Test

NCS

Your skin will be cleaned. Electrodes will be taped to the skin along the nerves that are being studied. A small electrical stimulus is applied that causes the nerves to activate. The electrodes will measure the current that travels down the nerve pathway. If your nerve is damaged, the current will be slower and weaker. Stimulus is given at various places to determine the specific site of the damage. You will feel mild discomfort from the shocks. It should not be painful.

EMG

A small needle electrode will be inserted into a muscle at rest. You will be asked to rest or contract the muscle. The electrical activity picked up by the needle will produce a waveform. The waveform will be recorded and analyzed. The test is repeated on different muscles and limbs. You may have some pain when the needle electrodes are inserted. The insertion feels like an injection into the muscle.

Approximately time needed for the test

• Upper extremity is about one hour (60 mins).

• Lower extremity is about one and half hours (90 mins).

• Both upper and lower extremities about two and half hours (150 mins).

After Test

• Once the test is complete, you will be able to resume your daily activities.

• After the EMG, you may have muscle aches and discomfort for several days. Warm compresses and pain medicine may help.

• After the test (EMG), call your doctor if any of the following occurs:

• Signs of infection, including fever and chills

• Redness, swelling, increasing pain, excessive bleeding, or discharge around the needle sites

Result

Your doctor will analyze the test and the will get report in a day or two.