EMG STANDS FOR ELECTROMYOGRAPHY &
NCS STANDS FOR NERVE CONDUCTION STUDIES
Often done in conjunction with one another . . .
- An Electromyogram (EMG) 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.
- Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS) are used to measure the health of your nerves. Mild electrical stimulation is administered to the skin directly overlaying 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.
THE VALUE OF EMG/NCS TESTING
The results of EMG/NCS testing can be a valuable tool for your physician to determine various conditions that can affect your nerves and muscles such as; neuromuscular diseases, motor problems, nerve injuries or degenerative conditions.
An EMG/NCS test may be the right test for you if you have numbness and tingling in your hands, feet, arms or legs, or pain or sensations radiating down the arms or legs, or weakness anywhere in the body.
By obtaining an EMG/NCS test your physician will be able to more clearly rule in/rule out what your condition is which will help lead to more effective treatment plans and better outcomes.
