Assessing your nerve function using electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction velocity (NCV) tests provides invaluable information about the cause and severity of certain neurological conditions. Neurologist Shanker Dixit, MD, of Neurology Center of Las Vegas in Las Vegas, Nevada, provides EMG/NCV testing onsite for your convenience. To benefit from expertly administered nerve testing, call Neurology Center of Las Vegas to schedule a consultation or book online today.

WHAT IS EMG/NCV TESTING?

EMG/NCV testing (also known as electrodiagnostic testing) measures the electrical activity in nerves and muscles. This information provides valuable evidence for the diagnosis and treatment of a range of neuromuscular conditions.

EMG/NCV testing consists of two separate procedures:

Electromyogram (EMG)

To perform an EMG, your technician inserts tiny electrodes into your muscles to evaluate how well they’re working. The EMG machine produces a readout to show the electrical activity in detail.

Nerve conduction velocity (NCV) test

NCV tests involve having a series of small electric shocks to your nerves. The highly skilled technician precisely calibrates the equipment to ensure the procedure is safe. NCV tests measure nerve function, speed, and efficiency.

WHY WOULD I NEED EMG/NVC TESTING?

You might need EMG/NCV testing if you have symptoms that could result from nerve damage or dysfunction. These symptoms could include:

• Pain
• Weakness
• Tingling
• “Pins-and-needles” sensation
• Numbness
• Spasms
• Reduced mobility
• Paralysis

Healthy nerves send messages to your muscles, instructing them how to move. If the signals aren't reaching your muscles because there's something wrong with your nervous system, EMG/NCV testing can locate the affected nerves.

WHAT CONDITIONS CAN EMG/NCV TESTING HELP DIAGNOSE?

EMG/NCV testing can help Dr. Dixit diagnose conditions such as:

• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Myasthenia gravis
• Neuropathy
• Pinched nerves
• Guillain-Barré syndrome
• Lambert-Eaton syndrome
• Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS or Lou Gehrig's disease)
• Muscular dystrophy
• Polymyositis
• Radial nerve dysfunction

EMG/NCV testing takes place onsite at Neurology Center of Las Vegas.

WHAT HAPPENS WHEN I UNDERGO EMG/NVC TESTING?

EMG/NCV testing is a two-part procedure with NCV testing first. Your technician places electrodes on the area under evaluation, then sends a series of mild electrical shocks to your nerves. This isn’t painful, but you might experience some discomfort. 

Computer software records how long it takes for the electric current to pass between the electrodes.

The EMG involves inserting very fine needles into your muscles to assess electrical activity. You might need to flex your muscles or perform other movements as directed by the technician during your NCV test to measure nerve responses in the symptomatic area. The EMG can be painful but is over very quickly.

EMG/NCV testing typically takes 45-60 minutes, after which you can resume your usual daily activities. Dr. Dixit goes over the results with you at a follow-up appointment.

To find out more about EMG/NCV testing and how it can help you, call Neurology Center of Las Vegas or book an appointment online today.