Electromyography/NCV CLINIC:

Nerve Conduction Study/ Needle EMG Test

The Physiatric Pain and Medical Rehabilitation Clinic clinicians are well trained and have performed countless numbers of EMG/NCV for private physicians, worker compensation insurance carriers and for our own private patients.
numbers of EMG/NCV for private physicians, worker compensation insurance carriers and for our own private patients.

 What is an EMG/NCV:

 An EMG/NCV test is a diagnostic test that your doctor may order to assist in obtaining additional information in making the right diagnosis regarding your medical condition.  The test has two components, the first is the NCV (nerve conduction test), the second component is the needle examination called an electromyogram. An electromyogram, or EMG, is a test that checks the response of muscles to messages sent by the nerves.

 What type of patient needs an EMG/NCV:

Patients that require a nerve test (NCV/EMG) are those that complain of neck or back radiating pain in the arm or legs, muscle weakness or involuntary twitching of muscles. Patients that complain of burning pain in the feet, hands or fatigue with minimal exertion are excellent candidates for the test.

 What types of conditions are diagnosed with NCV/EMG:

Patients that have neck pain, hand or arm numbness or tingling are usually referred for the test. Your doctor may want to exclude the following:

• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ulnar Neuropathy at the wrist or elbow
• Pinched Nerve (Cervical Radiculopathy)
• Brachial Plexus Injury
• Radial Neuropathy
• Thoracic Outlet Syndrome.
• Myopathy (Muscle Weakness)
• Muscular Dystrophy
• Myofascial Referred Pain

Patients that have lower extremity pain may have the following:

• Lumbosacral Radiculopathy
• Peroneal Neuropathy
• Sciatic Neuropathy
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Lumbosacral Plexopathy

How do I prepare for an electromyogram?

Tell your health care provider before the test if:

• You have any bleeding problems.
• You have a pacemaker.
• You have allergies.
• You are taking any medicines.

On the day of the test, take a shower to remove body oils and do not use body lotion.

How is the test performed?

 The first part of the test requires the doctor to isolate specific nerves with precisely placed electrodes. Then, he /she will provide a low voltage electrical stimulus to activate or depolarize the nerve. The doctor will evaluate different nerves in the extremity.  Protocols vary, but be prepared to have about 4-6 nerves stimulated.

The second phase of the test is the needle examination study in which the doctor places a thin needle into 4-6 different muscles to look for muscle abnormality.

 When can I expect the results of the test?

 The verbal results of the test can be provided to the patient at the conclusion of the test. The EMG/NCV test results will be faxed to your referring doctor.