EMG/NCV Testing
Meet Dr. Shara Bryant, APRN, BSN, FNP-C, DNP - EMV/NCV
She attended Florida State University in Tallahassee, FL. She has been practicing since 2003. She loves plants and traveling. She is married with 4 children. To schedule your appointment, call 850-222-4755
What is EMG/NCV Testing?
An EMG/NCV test is used to diagnose disorders of the vers and muscles - testing for neuropathies, carpal tunnel syndrome, sciatica, neck and spine conditions, and more.
Electromyography (EMG)
A diagnostic procedure that measures the muscle's response to nerve stimulation and electrical activity within selected muscle fibers may help differentiate between a muscle disorder and nerve disorder.
Nerve Conduction Velocity (NCV)
A diagnostic procedure that measures the speed at which an electrical impulse travels along a nerve
How to Prepare
- Allot enough time for the test. It can be anywhere between 30 min to an hour and a half.
- Inform your doctor if you have a cardiac defibrillator, pacemaker, or any other implanted device, as special steps may be taken before the test if so.
- Inform your doctor if you take blood thinners before the test.
- Bathe or take a shower in the morning to remove any excess oils from your skin. Do not apply lotion on the extremity being tested on the day of the test.
- Wear comfortable, loose clothing on the day of the test.
- Do not eat or drink foods that contain caffeine for at least 1-2 hours before schedule tests.
Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate!
What to Expect
During the NVC portion, patch-like electrodes are applied to your skin in several places over the nerve being tested. Low-level electricity is dispensed through the electrodes to stimulate the nerve.
During the EMG portion, the doctor or nurse practitioner will insert thin, needle-shaped electrodes into several muscles of the arm or leg area. These needle electrodes record the electrical activity of relaxed and contracted muscles.
After Care Instructions
- Drink at least one to two 8-ounce glasses of water
- Apply an ice pack to any sore areas.
- Do not schedule any appointments that involve needle injections afterwards.
- If possible, rest for the remainder of the day. If not possible, do not perform any strenuous activities the rest of the day.
Common Diagnoses
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
A painful condition of the hand and fingers caused by compression of the median nerve, where it passes over the carpal bones through a passage at the front of the wrist.
Symptoms include numbness, tingling, weakness of the hand and arm, and the inability to grip or hold objects.
Ulnar Nerve Entrapment
A painful condition caused by increased pressure on the ulnar nerve where it passes close to the skin's surface in the area of the elbow. This can also be called "Cubital Tunnel Syndrome''.
Symptoms include pain and numbness at the elbow, tingling in the ring and pinky finger, and the feeling of "falling asleep" in the ring and pinky finger, especially when the elbow is bent.
Prevention
- Try to sleep with your wrists and elbows straight.
- Avoid repetitive curling and extending your wrists and elbows.
- If unable to avoid, take frequent rests when performing repetitive motions.
- Perform stretching and strengthening exercises before and after activities.
- Although there are things you can do to prevent both Ulnar Nerve Entrapment and Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, there is no 100% guarantee they can be prevented.
- Performing activities, such as the ones listed above, can decrease your chance of developing Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and Ulnar Nerve Entrapment.
Any Discomfort?
There is discomfort for some people at the time the needle electrodes are inserted - it has been compared to acupuncture. Nothing is injected during the test. Afterwards, the muscle may feel a little sore for the rest of the day. It is possible to develop some bruising on one or more areas. However, not every person receiving this test has these reactions.
