NCS/EMG test (commonly simply referred as EMG) consists of two parts:
1. Nerve conduction study (NCS), which utilizes surface electrodes taped to the skin surface along various areas of the arms and legs to help measure the speed and amount of the nerve conducting; 2. Electromyography (EMG), which utilizes needle electrodes which transmit electrical impluses once inserted directly into the muscle. EMG is a diagnostic procedure used to help evaluate the integrity and health of muscles and the nerves.
NCS/EMG results can reveal both nerve and muscle dysfunction or even the intricate network between nerve and muscle.
Doctors may recommend EMG when patients experience symptoms such as: numbness, tingling, burning, pain, muscle spasm, weakness leading to functional loss.
Do I Need an EMG?
Electrodiagnostic evaluation is used to assist in the diagnosis of medical conditions that affect nerve and muscle function. Common examples include:
