Definition
Definition
A nerve conduction study (NCS) is a test that measures the speed and strength of electrical activity in a nerve. The test can gather information about the structure and function of both muscle and nerve.
Electromyogram of Shoulder—Used in Conjunction with Nerve Conduction StudyCopyright © Nucleus Medical Media, Inc.
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Reasons for Test
Reasons for Test
A NCS is most often done to:
- Help diagnose the cause of pain, cramping, numbness, or weakness
- Determine if nerves are working properly
- Identify the difference between muscle and nerve disorders
- Monitor if a nerve is recovering from injury
Possible Complications
Possible Complications
There are no major complications associated with this test.
What to Expect
What to Expect
Prior to Test
Before your procedure:
- Make sure you talk to your doctor about the medications you are taking.
- If you have myasthenia gravis, ask if you should take any medication before the test.
- If directed to, avoid cigarettes, coffee, tea, and soft drinks for 2-3 hours before the test.
- Shower the day of your test. Do not use any creams, moisturizers, or powders on your skin.
Description of Test
Your skin will be cleaned. Electrodes will be taped to the skin along the nerves that are being studied. A small stimulus will be used to apply an electric current that causes the nerves to activate. The electrodes will measure the current that travels down the nerve pathway. The current will be slower and weaker if your nerve is damaged. Stimulus will be used at different places to determine the specific site of the damage.
Nerve conduction studies are often done along with electromyography (EMG).
After Test
You will be able to resume your daily activities after the test is complete.
How Long Will It Take?
About 30-90 minutes
Will It Hurt?
You will feel mild discomfort from the shocks. It should not be very painful.
Results
Your doctor will study the information from the test. A report should be ready within a few days.
Call Your Doctor
Call Your Doctor
Call your doctor if you have any questions or concerns following the test.
In case of an emergency, call for emergency medical services right away.
RESOURCES:
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke http://www.ninds.nih.gov
CANADIAN RESOURCES:
Chronic Pain Association of Canada http://www.chronicpaincanada.com
References:
http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00270
Updated October 2007. Accessed June 23, 2015.
Specialized nerve tests: EMG, NCV, and SSEP. North American Spine Society website. Available at:
http://www.knowyourback.org/Pages/Treatments/AssessmentTools/SpecializedNerveTests.aspx
Updated June 16, 2011. Accessed June 23, 2015.
Spinal diagnostics: nerve conduction studies. Cedars-Sinai website. Available at:
http://www.cedars-sinai.edu/Patients/Programs-and-Services/Spine-Center/Conditions-and-Treatments/Diagnostic-Studies/Spinal-Diagnostics-Nerve-Conduction-Studies.aspx
Accessed June 23, 2015.
Last Updated: 5/11/2013