EMG/NCS - Electromyography/Nerve Conduction Studies

 

What does the EMG/NCS test?

The EMG/NCS study examines the integrity of the peripheral nerves and muscles of the body. The study does NOT examine the brain or spinal cord. It is important to realize that you can have a nerve or muscle problem, even though you may not "think" you have any nerve or muscle problems. This test does NOT measure pain. You may have a normal EMG-NCS study, even though you have severe pain.

 

What are the different parts of the study?

(1) - NCS = Nerve Conduction Studies = the "shock test", and

(2) - EMG = Electromyography = the "needle" exam

 

How long is the study?

Each EMG/NCS study varies from patient to patient, depending on what results are obtained. As such, the study may take as little as 20 minutes, or as much as 2 hours.

 

What is the NCS or Nerve Conduction Study?

The NCS examines the nerves in your arms and legs. This consists of attaching wires to the surface of your skin, and administering a small "shock" to see how well the nerves react and function. These results are monitored on a computer.

 

What is the EMG or Electromyography?

The EMG examines the muscle activity in your body. This study consists of inserting a sterile, individually wrapped, needle into your various muscles and monitoring their activity. These results are monitored on a computer. You will probably be stuck 5-7 times per arm or leg. There is NO shocking during the needle exam.

 

Is this test painful?

The "shocks" during the NCS are not painful, although they may feel slightly uncomfortable. The needle "sticks" during the EMG feels like a small ant bite, and can sometimes be uncomfortable, but not painful.

 

Do I have to tell the MD about any specific medical conditions?

Yes. Please notify the physician PRIOR to the study if:

(1) you think you may have AIDS or Hepatitis, or

(2) if you are taking any blood thinners, such as Coumadin or Aspirin

 

What type of clothing should I wear?

Men - if possible, wear shorts and T-shirt.

Women - if possible, wear a loose dress and T-shirt.

**** Please remove any watches or rings you might be wearing on BOTH your hands / fingers. ****

 

Can I wear lotion on my arms and legs?

Please DO NOT use any Lotion or Creams on the day of the test. Such Lotions or Creams will make it difficult to perform the study.

 

What do I do if I accidentally wear lotion?

Please wash your arms and legs with soap and water in the office restroom.

 

When will I have the results?

If you are an active patient of our office, then the EMG-NCS results will be discussed with you on your next office visit. If you have come to our office only for the EMG-NCS, then the results will be sent to your referring physician within 48 hours. They will discuss the results with you on your next office visit with them.

 

Can the Doctor advise me on different treatment options?

If Dr. Athni is actively involved in your care, then he will advise you of your different treatment options after reviewing the results on your follow up visit. But, if you have come to our office only for the EMG/NCS, then your referring physician will have to counsel you on your treatment plan.