Nerve Conduction Study
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.
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
There are no major complications associated with this test.
What to Expect
Prior to Test
Before your procedure:
- Make sure you talk to your doctor about the medicines you are taking.
-
If you have
myasthenia gravis
, ask if you should take any medicine 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.
- Wear comfortable clothing, but expect to change into a hospital gown.
Description of Test
Your skin will be cleaned. Electrodes will be taped to the skin along the nerves that are being studied. Your doctor will use a small stimulus 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. Your doctor will use the stimulus at different places to determine the specific site of the damage.
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 if you have any questions or concerns following the test.
In case of an emergency, call for medical help right away.
RESOURCES
American Chronic Pain Association
http://www.theacpa.org/
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
http://www.ninds.nih.gov/
CANADIAN RESOURCES
Canadian Neurological Sciences Federation
http://www.cnsfederation.org/
Chronic Pain Association of Canada
http://www.chronicpaincanada.com/
References
Electrodiagnostic testing. American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons website. Available at:
http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00270
.
Updated October 2007. Accessed November 27, 2012.
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 November 26, 2012.
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 November 26, 2012.
