What is the EMG/NCV Test?
EMG/NCV testing identifies nerve and muscle problems, including neuropathies, carpal tunnel syndrome, sciatica, and neck and spine conditions. It is a nerve and muscle function test that complements the clinical evaluation and imaging investigations such as MRI.
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| Test Type | Electrodiagnostic Test |
|---|---|
| Preparation | Wear loose clothes for this test, Do not use any type of body lotion or perfume before the test |
| Report | EMG test results can be expected within 24 to 48 hours, while the NCV test can take up to 7 days |
| EMG/NCV Test costs | EMG test can cost up to Rs. 1000 to Rs. 3000, and the NCV test can cost up to Rs. 1000 to Rs. 5000, approximately |
What is the Normal EMG/NCV Range?
The normal EMG/NCV range is 50 to 60 meters per second.
For any abnormal value, you must consult a doctor.
Why was the EMG/NCV Test used?
EMG and nerve conduction studies are utilized to assist in diagnosing various muscle and nerve disorders. An EMG test determines if muscles are properly responding to nerve signals, while nerve conduction studies identify nerve damage or disease. When conducted in conjunction, these tests help healthcare providers differentiate between muscle and nerve disorders as the source of your symptoms.
What are the Risks associated with the EMG/NCV Test?
The risks associated with an EMG test are minimal and uncommon. In rare cases, there might be:
- The possibility of an infection at the site where the needle is inserted, particularly if there is swelling in that area.
- Occasional bleeding, especially if you have a bleeding disorder or are taking blood thinners or certain medications, including herbal supplements.
- A slight chance of nerve injury in specific muscle areas that are considered "high-risk," such as the diaphragm (used for breathing), rib cage, rotator cuff, back, and spine.
How to Prepare for an EMG Test?
Before the test, there's no need for any special preparations. However, it's recommended that on the morning of the EMG monitoring, you:
- Take a bath or shower, but skip the lotions or moisturizers
- Refrain from smoking
- Remember to discuss with your doctor about any medications you're taking. Some medicines may need to be avoided until after the test.
- If you have a pacemaker or implanted cardiac defibrillator (ICD), inform your doctor before scheduling the EMG, as it could impact their functioning.
- Attire-wise, opt for loose-fitting clothes that are easy to remove and won't restrict your movements.
- Avoid tight undergarments like shaping underwear, pantyhose, or long underwear. When it comes to food and drink, you can eat normally, but your doctor might suggest avoiding caffeine and sugary drinks for a few hours before the test.
- Don't forget to inform your doctor about any prescription, over-the-counter, or herbal medications you're currently using.
Interpreting the Results of the EMG/NCV Test?
Understanding EMG and NCS Findings After conducting either the EMG or NCS procedures, the overseeing neurologist will carefully examine the results and provide a summary to your doctor. If the findings indicate a neuromuscular disorder or nerve damage, you will likely be referred to a specialist. Additional tests may be ordered to gather more information about your condition. Based on these findings, a treatment plan will be developed, which could involve medications, surgeries, or lifestyle adjustments. It's important to note that neither NCS nor EMG can directly resolve your muscle or nerve issues. However, they do provide crucial insights for doctors to determine the best course of action to help you feel better soon.
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Book an AppointmentFrequently Asked Questions
EMG/NCV tests are done to allow physicians to determine the cause of muscle cramping, extremity weakness, spine-related issues that cause numbness and tingling sensations, and other crippling health conditions.
EMG testing can be uncomfortable, but it is generally well-tolerated without pain medicine.
An EMG can take anywhere from 30 to 60 minutes. Nerve conduction tests can last from 15 minutes to an hour or longer. It is determined by how many muscles and nerves your doctor examines.
When a patient exhibits a muscle or nerve disorder, a doctor will likely order an EMG. These diagnoses may include tingling, numbness, or unexplained limb weakness.
An abnormal EMG result shows a strange pattern with unusual wave shapes. Even when at rest, there is electrical activity, and the electrical impulses (produced by motor neurons) are irregular during muscle contraction.
After your EMG, you may need to stay in an outpatient facility or hospital for a short time. Warm compresses will be applied to your injection sites to relieve pain. If you had sedation, you would be unable to drive for approximately 24 hours because you would be drowsy.
Your doctor may recommend a nerve conduction test to determine the cause of muscle or nerve symptoms. Stiffness, weakness, spasticity, numbness, tingling, or pain are symptoms. The test can diagnose nerve and muscle diseases and conditions such as ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis) and myasthenia gravis.
The analysis of EMG tremors can be used to diagnose Parkinson's disease, essential tremors, and enhanced physiological tremors.
A normal EMG nerve conduction study does not rule out polyneuropathy. Only large fibre polyneuropathy can be assessed using EMG nerve conduction studies. So yes, there is a chance of nerve damage even after the test.
Caffeine-containing foods (such as coffee, tea, cola, and chocolate) should be avoided 2 to 3 hours before the test.
