Electromyography (EMG) and Nerve Conduction Velocity (NCV) Testing

Electromyography (EMG) and Nerve Conduction Velocity (NCV) 

Electromyography (EMG) and Nerve Velocity (NCV) studies are used to diagnose a variety of neuromuscular disorders. This testing involves measuring the electrical activity of muscles and nerves to determine if there is nerve injury or damage. 

Patients undergoing such testing typically have numbness, pain or weakness and these tests are used to diagnose the underlying cause of such symptoms. 

Common reasons for EMG or NCV consultation include low back pain, neck pain or hand symptoms that may be due to carpal tunnel syndrome. People with suspected nerve injuries due to limb trauma are also often referred for this testing.

The electrodiagnostic examination usually takes 20 to 60 minutes and there are no restrictions on activity before or after the testing.

• Electromyogram (EMG): A small, thin needle is inserted into several muscles and electrical signals travel from the needle into an EMG machine. A physician determines if there are any abnormalities.
• Nerve conduction velocity (NCV): A physician applies small electrical currents to nerves to determine how well the body's electrical signals are traveling and whether or not there are any abnormalities.

Conditions diagnosed with neuromuscular testing  

• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Nerve complications
• Radiculopathy (pinched nerve in the neck or back)
• Peripheral neuropathy
• Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)
• Myasthenia gravis

A physician may order EMG testing if you are experiencing the following symptoms:

• Nerve pain and tingling
• Numbness
• Paralysis
• Muscle weakness
• Spasm

EMG and NCV studies are conducted by specialists with LGHP Pain Management and LGHP NeuroScience & Spine Associates.