Nerve Conduction Studies and Electromyography (NCS/EMG) FAQ

NCS and EMG
Preparing for Your Test
The Day of Your Test
After the Test

What are NCS and EMG?
These are two different electrical tests of nerves and muscles.

What do they test for?
Some of the most common reasons for testing are:

• Numbness
• Tingling
• Pinched nerves
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Herniated or bulging spinal disks
• Neuropathy
• Weakness
• Hand, foot, or limb pain.
• Myopathy or muscle disease

What is NCS?
NCS stands for Nerve Conduction Study. (Also called Nerve Conduction Velocity or NCV). Metal disks will be placed on you skin which record your nerve activity.

Several of your nerves will be stimulated. This creates signals that are detected by the metal disks.

You will feel the electrical impulse. The stimulation may resemble static electricity or "hitting your funny bone." The stimulus will cause a muscle to twitch.

The neurologist performing the test will analyze the responses from your nerves, to find any abnormalities.

What is EMG?
EMG stands for electromyography.

EMG records the activity in your muscles. The muscle activity is recorded by a very thin needle inserted in to the muscle.

The needle connects to an amplifier/microphone. You will be able to hear your muscles working!

Where is the testing done?
At Neurology Associates, Inc., we offer NCS/EMG in our office.

Our office is located in the University Club Towers building at 1034 S. Brentwood Blvd, Suite 754.

How long does it take?
Testing is tailored to the problems you are having, and may take approximately 30 to 90 minutes.

How do I prepare for my test?
Do not apply any oils or lotions on the day of your test. The testing works best if your skin is clean and dry.

You do not need to fast for NCS/EMG.

Do I need to disrobe?
The limbs being tested need to be exposed. A gown will be provided. In some cases testing can be performed with the patient in street clothes, if the entire limb being tested is accessible.

You will be asked to remove your jewelry and watch.

Arrive early, allowing time to change into a gown if necessary.

Who does the testing?
At Neurology Associates Inc., your NCS/EMG will be performed by one of our neurologists. At other facilities, some testing can be performed by technicians who are supervised by a physician.

What will the doctor ask me?
Tell the doctor if you take any blood thinners, such as warfarin or Coumadin.

The doctor will confirm with you the type of testing to be done. For example, he or she may ask you to identify the part of your body in which you are having symptoms.

A complete neurologic evaluation is not performed during an appointment for NCS/EMG. If you have not been seen by one of our neurologists before, your doctor can request a separate neurology consultation if necessary.

Does it hurt?
Testing may be uncomfortable, but most patients find it tolerable. Patients usually find the testing worthwhile because it helps their doctor reach a diagnosis.

Do I have to have the needle test?
Usually NCS is performed first. This part is non-invasive. The doctor performing the test will then decide whether needle EMG will also be performed, which requires a needle.

EMG will be needed if your testing is for neck pain, low back pain, spine, or disk issues.

How do I get my test results?
In many cases the neurologist performing the test may tell you your results immediately after the testing. Usually, you will need to follow up with the doctor who ordered the test, so that he or she can interpret your results in the context of your medical history. Your doctor may recommend treatment or additional testing based on your results.

Are there any long term complications?
No. You can resume your usual activities immediately after your tests. Some people feel mild tingling after NCS or mild muscle soreness in sites where EMG was performed. It may help to relax for the rest of the day and these effects will resolve.