Our electrodiagnostic studies evaluate the health of your nerves and muscles using two main tests: nerve conduction studies (NCS) and electromyography (EMG). Together, they provide detailed information that helps diagnose nerve damage, muscle disorders, and pinched nerves.
During an NCS, small electrodes are placed on the skin, and mild electrical pulses measure how quickly signals travel along your nerves. For an EMG, a thin needle electrode records electrical activity in specific muscles while they rest and contract.
Most of our electrodiagnostic studies take 30 to 90 minutes. You may feel brief tingling or mild discomfort, but there’s typically no downtime, so you can return to normal activities afterward. To prepare, skip lotions on the day of your test and wear loose, comfortable clothing.
These studies usually consist of two parts:
