Nerve Conduction Studies & EMG

The doctors we support at Northern Neuroscience offer advanced nerve conduction studies (NCS) and electromyography (EMG) to diagnose and evaluate neuromuscular disorders. The skilled specialists we support utilise these tests to assess the health and functionality of your nerves and muscles, providing crucial information for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment planning.

What are Nerve Conduction Studies?

Nerve conduction studies measure how well and how fast electrical impulses travel through your peripheral nerves. This test helps in identifying nerve damage or dysfunction, which could be indicative of conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome, peripheral neuropathy, or nerve root compression.

What is Electromyography (EMG)?

Electromyography (EMG) evaluates the electrical activity produced by your muscles. By inserting a fine needle electrode into the muscle, EMG can detect abnormalities in muscle electrical activity, aiding in the diagnosis of conditions like muscular dystrophy, myasthenia gravis, and motor neuron diseases.

Who Might Need These Tests?

NCS and EMG are recommended for individuals experiencing:

• Numbness, tingling, or burning sensations.
• Muscle weakness or cramps
• Unexplained pain in the limbs
• Chronic back or neck pain
• Difficulty in movement or coordination

These tests are essential for accurately diagnosing a range of neuromuscular conditions and guiding subsequent treatment plans.

What to Expect During the Tests with your doctor

1. Preparation:
   • No special preparation is usually required
   • Avoid applying lotions or creams on the day of the test
   • Wear loose, comfortable clothing
2. During Nerve Conduction Studies:
   • Small electrodes are placed on the skin over the nerve to be tested
   • A mild electrical pulse is delivered to stimulate the nerve
   • The response is recorded to assess nerve function
3. During Electromyography:
   • A fine needle electrode is inserted into the muscle
   • You may be asked to contract the muscle gently
   • The electrical activity is recorded and analysed

Both tests are generally well-tolerated, with minimal discomfort.

After the Tests

Once the tests are completed, the results will be analysed by your specialist. A detailed report will be provided to your referring doctor, along with recommendations for further treatment or management based on the findings.

Why We Support Your Doctor

• Expertise: The doctors we support are comprised of highly trained specialists with extensive experience in neuromuscular diagnostics.
  
• Comprehensive Care: The doctors we support provide a thorough and patient-centred approach to diagnosis and treatment.
  
• State-of-the-Art Equipment: Our practice is equipped with the latest technology, giving your doctor a space to ensure precise and reliable test results.