What is nerve conduction study (NCS)?
A nerve conduction study (NCS) is a diagnostic test that evaluates the function of your peripheral nervous system. An NCS can help detect the presence and extent of severity of peripheral nerve damage.
What symptoms/conditions can be diagnosed and investigated with NCS?
Carpal Tunnel syndrome
Nerve conduction studies (NCS) can confirm carpal tunnel syndrome by detecting slowed nerve signals through the wrist, helping to assess the severity of compression.
Ulnar neuropathy
NCS helps diagnose ulnar neuropathy by measuring how well signals pass through the ulnar nerve, identifying any blockages or damage near the elbow or wrist.
Tarsal Tunnel syndrome
NCS can detect abnormalities in the tibial nerve to diagnose tarsal tunnel syndrome, a condition caused by compression of the nerve in the ankle.
Peripheral neuropathy
NCS is used to assess nerve function and detect damage in peripheral neuropathy, which may result from conditions like diabetes or infections.
Nerve Damage (neuropathy/ radiculopathy)
NCS can identify nerve damage from neuropathy or radiculopathy by measuring nerve signal transmission, revealing issues like compression or degeneration of nerves.
Guillain-Barré syndrome
NCS aids in diagnosing Guillain-Barré syndrome by evaluating nerve conduction velocity, which often slows down as the body’s immune system attacks peripheral nerves.
Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease
NCS is used to diagnose Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease by assessing nerve function and identifying characteristic slowing of nerve conduction in affected individuals.
Herniated disk disease
NCS can help diagnose herniated disk disease by evaluating nerve conduction in areas affected by pressure from herniated disks, providing insight into nerve damage.
Benefits of NCS & EMG Studies
NCS and EMG studies help diagnose nerve and muscle disorders, guide treatment by identifying damage, and monitor recovery or disease progression.
Accurate Diagnosis of Neurological Disorders
NCS and EMG help identify nerve and muscle disorders like carpal tunnel syndrome, neuropathy, and muscle diseases, allowing for precise diagnosis.
Guides Treatment and Management
These tests provide valuable insights into the severity and location of nerve or muscle damage, guiding effective treatment options and rehabilitation plans.
Monitors Disease Progression or Recovery
NCS and EMG help track the progression of conditions like neuropathy or muscle weakness and monitor the effectiveness of treatment or recovery over time.
What happens during NCS?
During NCS, small electrodes are placed on the skin to deliver mild electrical impulses to the nerves. The electrodes then measure the speed and strength of the nerve signals as they travel. This helps identify nerve damage, blockages, or abnormalities. The test is typically painless, though you may feel a mild tingling or slight discomfort. It usually takes about 30-60 minutes.
How do I prepare for the NCS?
To prepare for NCS, make sure to avoid lotions or oils on your skin, wear comfortable clothing for easy access to the test areas, and inform your doctor about any medications you're taking. These simple steps will help ensure accurate results and a smoother testing experience.
Avoid Lotions and Oils
Make sure your skin is clean and free from any lotions or oils to ensure the electrodes can stick properly.
Wear Comfortable Clothing
Choose loose-fitting clothes to allow easy access to the area being tested, ensuring a smooth procedure.
Inform Your Doctor About Medications
Let your doctor know if you’re on any medications, as some can interfere with the results, especially muscle relaxants.
Read More About Other Services
Botoxulium Treatment
Botulinum toxin treatment is a medical therapy that blocks nerve signals to muscles, reducing excessive activity. It is commonly used to treat chronic migraines, muscle spasms, and certain neurological conditions by providing long-lasting relief.
Electroencephalography (EEG)
An EMG study measures the electrical activity of muscles during contraction and rest. It helps identify muscle function and detect upstream pathologies, such as cervical spine issues affecting the arms or lumbosacral nerve root involvement impacting the legs.
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