What is an NCS/EMG?

NC/EMG is short for Nerve Conduction Studies and Electromyogram. It is a test that measures and records the electrical properties of nerve and muscle.

It is a non-invasive procedure that is useful in the evaluation of nerve injuries, compression and neuropathies and in muscle disease - myasthenia gravis, myositis, myopathies and muscular dystrophies.

The electrical activity is displayed on a Cathode Ray Oscilloscope and played with sound effects for simultaneous visual and auditory analysis.

Some electrical patterns seen during recoding are:
1. Evoked Potential
2. Muscle Activity

How is it done?

With the patient seated or lying the skin area is cleansed with alcohol and a surface electrode applied with a special electrolyte conductive paste and taped to the skin.

This are connected to the electromyogram machine that records the electrical potential of nerve and muscle on a Cathode Ray Oscilloscope and with sound effect.

A tiny electrical shock is then given on the nerve to be tested and recordings taken. The muscle activity in different muscles is also recorded.

EMG involves tiny electrical shocks only and has no permanent effect No needles are used or any invasive methods.

The procedure lasts approximately 1/2 an hour.

About your EMG Exam

Appointment:
Please call or come in to any of our offices to schedule your appointment.

PREPARATION:
No special preparation is necessary. It may be useful to wash the limb to be tested and apply no lotions or oils which may affect the application of the electrodes and recording.

Infants and children should be accompanied by a parent or adult.

Before Your EMG Exam:
You would be' asked some simple questions regarding the medical history of your condition and a brief and simple examination of the affected area may be carried out.

During Your EMG Exam:
You should be relaxed as much as possible for the test. Any discomfort from the tiny electrical shocks are minor and temporary.

YOUR EMG RESULTS

The recordings would be evaluated by the neurologist and report issued to you at the completion of the EMG. If you had had a previous EMG, please bring in your previous report for comparison.

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