Four Peaks Neurology conducts Nerve Conduction Velocity (“NCV”) tests in conjunction with Electromyography tests (“EMG”) for the purpose of detecting the location, presence, and severity of nerve and muscle damage. NCV tests involve the administration of quick, mild electrical shocks to the nerve, and measuring how fast the electrical signal moves through the nerve. Several nerves may be tested by the administrating physician during this process. EMG tests involve the application of small pins in certain muscles to gauge the electrical activity occurring in the muscles during contraction and at rest. Therefore, NCV/EMG act as function tests for the muscles and the nervous system.

NCV/EMG testing is typically used to test for neuropathies, as well as diagnose disorders of the muscles and nerves. Some of the diseases or symptoms that can be tested for using NCV/EMG test include, but are not limited to:

• Sciatica
• Neck/spine conditions
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Facial nerve damage
• Ulnar nerve damage
• Diabetic nerve damage
• Peripheral nerve damage
• Muscle spasms or weakness
• Reduced sensation/numbness in extremities
• Neck pain
• Back pain

All of our physicians are trained in performing EMG and NCV testing. One of our physicians will perform the examination.

The physician will typically begin by conducting the NCV study. Afterwards, the physician will place electrodes onto the part of your body where you are experiencing symptoms. You might feel a slight pinch during electrode placement.

During the test, those electrodes will pick up electrical activity, which will be displayed on an oscilloscope. You will be asked to contract the muscle (e.g., lifting or bending your leg) slightly or forcefully. When you move the muscle accordingly, a wave will appear on the oscilloscope. The size and shape of that wave provides relevant information concerning the muscle’s responsiveness to stimuli.

There are no lasting side effects. You may resume your regular activities after the tests.

Your doctor has recommended an NCV/EMG test to determine whether your muscles and nerves are operating correctly. It is possible that you have symptoms in only one part of your body, or throughout your entire body. It is possible that you are being tested because you are currently experiencing:

• Numbness
• Tingling
• Pain
• Weakness
• Muscle cramping

The results of an NCV/EMG examination will assist your doctor in determining what the underlying disease or cause is, and the appropriate course of treatment.

To prepare for an NCV/EMG:

• Take a bath or shower to remove oil from your skin.
• Do not use body lotion on the day of the test.
• If you have myasthenia gravis, ask your NCV/EMG doctor if you should take any medications before the test.

You are free to engage in your regular daily activities (i.e., eating, driving, exercising, etc.) prior to the examination.

An NCV/EMG typically takes about one hour.

A Four Peaks physician will discuss your test results with you, or your results will be sent to your primary care physician. After the exam, contact your referring physician for information regarding the next step in your care.