Q. What is an EMG/NCS?
A. EMG is an abbreviation for Electromyography.
An EMG/ Nerve Conduction Study are administered in two parts.
The EMG portion determines the condition of the muscles. The
Nerve Conduction portion determines the condition of the nerves.
Usually the Nerve Conduction portion of the exam is conducted first.

Nerve Conduction Studies – introduce a mild electrical stimulation
over the nerves. The electrical stimulation is increased to create a
response from the nerves. The results are captured and recorded
into a computer. The results from your test are compared to relative
normal ranges to determine your condition.

Electromyography – requires the examiner to insert very small
needles into the muscles. The muscles are introduced to stimulation
through the needles. Electrodes record the muscles response to the stimulation in a computer. The results of the EMG are compared with
the results from the NCS. Your doctor will evaluate the results and
provide a clinical course for you.

Q. Will I feel pain or discomfort from the EMG/NCS?
A. Relaxation during the exam will result in very minimal discomfort.
The nerve conduction study may be slightly more uncomfortable than
the EMG portion of the exam. You should discuss any concerns with
your physician.

Q. How do I prepare for the exam?
A. Your physician will likely take a history to determine relevant
details. You should inform the doctor of previous EMG/NCS tests.
Advise the doctor if you take Coumadin (a blood thinner), have
a pace maker, or may have been exposed to hepatitis.