EMG/NCS (Nerve Conduction Study)

What is EMG/NCS ?

EMG/NCS testing consists of electromyography and a nerve conduction study, which are diagnostic tools that help determine the cause of bothersome symptoms linked to nerve damage. This test allows the Apex Spine and Neurosurgery team to properly diagnose your condition and provide highly effective treatments that offer symptom relief.

How does EMG/NCS work?

EMG/NCS works by measuring the electrical activity of your nerves or muscles. Nerves send electrical signals that make muscles react. As they react, the muscles give off signals that your provider can measure.

An EMG test evaluates electrical signals produced by muscles, and a nerve conduction study measures the speed and effectiveness of electrical signals traveling down the nerves. 

EMG/NCS tests are typically performed together. They can determine if you have disorders involving the nerves, muscles, or both.

What can EGM/NCS diagnose?

EMG/NCS can diagnose numerous nerve and muscle disorders, including nerve damage, nerve diseases, and muscle disorders. Examples include:

• Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)
• Herniated discs
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Muscular dystrophy
• Guillain-Barré syndrome
• Myasthenia gravis

• Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease
• Diabetic neuropathy

Symptoms that may indicate a need for EMG/NCS testing include muscle weakness, muscle paralysis, cramping, and muscle twitching or spasms. You might also have tingling or numbness in your legs, arms, face, feet, or hands. 

How should I prepare for EMG/NCS?

Wear loose, comfortable clothing to your EMG/NCS test, and make sure your skin is clean. Avoid using creams, perfumes, or lotions a day or two before your scheduled appointment. Tell your provider if you have a cardiac defibrillator or pacemaker. 

What should I expect during EMG/NCS testing?

During an EMG/NCS test, you can expect:

EMG

Your specialist cleans your skin while you sit or lie down. They place a needle electrode into a muscle. The electrode emits a mild electrical current, which is recorded by a machine. It records muscle activity at rest and when you contract the muscle. Your provider may move the electrode and record activity in other muscles. You might feel slight discomfort or cramping during the test.

NCS

You sit or lie down during an NCS. Your specialist attaches one or multiple electrodes to nerves. The electrodes deliver mild electrical pulses as a machine records the responses of nerves sending signals to muscles and the speed of muscles responding to nerve signals. You might feel a mild tingling sensation during an NCS.

Schedule an evaluation at Apex Spine and Neurosurgery by phone or request one online today to determine if you’re a candidate for EMG/NCS.