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EMG stands for Electromyography and NCV stands for Nerve Conduction Velocity.
The test has two parts:
- An EMG (Electromyogram) measures the electrical activity of muscles at rest and during contraction. Nerves control the muscles in the body by electrical signals (impulses), and these impulses cause the muscles to react in specific ways. Nerve and muscle disorders cause the muscles to react in abnormal ways. During an Electromyography study, a very small pin is inserted in the muscle that helps us evaluate the condition of your muscles.
- NCV (Nerve Conduction Velocity) are used to measure the health of your nerves. Mild electrical stimulation is administered to the skin directly overlying the nerve. The response is measured by a second set of electrodes applied to the surface of the skin. This impulse produces a visual signal on a computer monitor, and when analyzed, it can provide information about the condition of the nerve.
Measuring the electrical activity in muscles and nerves can help find diseases that damage muscle tissue (such as myopathy and muscular dystrophy) or nerves (such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis or peripheral neuropathies). EMG and Nerve Conduction Velocity are done together to provide us with more complete data.
The results of EMG/NCV testing can be an invaluable tool for your doctor to determine various conditions that can affect your nerves and muscles, which will help them manage your care more effectively.
EMG/NCV are easy, reliable, and safe tests.
Our team of highly trained professionals, always in the closest cooperation and communication with the patient and ordering physician, is here to provide you with a pleasant and comfortable experience, and to obtain the most valuable information needed for your doctor.
Proper testing can assist in the correct diagnosis that leads to the appropriate physical therapy treatment. EMG/NCV testing can be part of your health solution!
For more information about how EMG/NCV testing can help with your diagnosis, contact Courcier Clinic Physical Therapy in Edmond, OK.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the EMG/NCS test?
The EMG/NCS study examines the integrity of the peripheral nerves and muscles of the body. The study does not examine the brain or spinal cord. It is important to realize that you can have a muscle or nerve problem, even though you may not think you do. The test does NOT measure pain. You may have a normal study even though you have severe pain.
What are the different parts of the study?
The study is usually done in 2 parts: 1) Nerve Conduction Study (NCS) and 2) Electromyography (EMG).
How long is the study?
Each EMG/NCS study varies from patient to patient, depending on what results are obtained. As such, the study may take as little as 45 minutes or as much as 90 minutes.
What is the Nerve Conduction Study (NCS)?
The NCS involves examining the nerves in your arms and/or legs. This consists of placing sticky pads on the surface of the skin and administering a small electrical impulse vibration to see how well the nerves react and function. These results are monitored on a computer.
What is the Electromyography (EMG)?
The EMG examines muscle activity in your body. The study consists of inserting a small pin into the muscle and monitoring the activity. The results are monitored and recorded on a computer.
Do I have to tell the therapist about any specific medical conditions?
Yes. Please notify the therapist prior to the study if you have or have been exposed to HIV/ Al DS, hepatitis, or other communicable diseases. You’ll also want to notify the therapist if you’re on any blood thinners such as Coumadin or Aspirin.
What should I wear?
Men: If possible, wear shorts and a t-shirt.
Women: If possible, wear a loose dress/skirt and a t-shirt.
Please remove all jewelry including watches and rings prior to the test.
Can I wear lotion/moisturizer?
Please do not apply ANY lotions, creams, moisturizers, etc. the day of the test. Such lotions make the test difficult and may skew the results. Please wash it off before entering the exam room if you did apply that day.
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