What are Nerve Conduction Studies?
Nerve Conduction Studies are also known as Nerve Conduction Velocity tests (NCV). These tests are performed to measure the speed of an electrical impulse as it moves through your nerves. It is done along with EMG (Electromyography). NCV tests helps to detect the nerve disorders whereas EMG detects muscle co-ordination in response to the nerve stimulus.
Why should I undergo Nerve Conduction Studies?
You may be recommended to undergo nerve conduction studies (NCS) if you experience numbness, tingling, altered sensation and persistent pain in the body and to rule out following conditions:
- Guillain-Barre syndrome
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Charcot Marie Tooth Disease
- Herniated disc disease
- Diabetic neuropathy
- Sciatic nerve problems
- Chronic inflammatory polyneuropathy
- Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)
- Peripheral nerve injury
- Muscular dystrophy
- Myasthenia gravis
What are the Contraindications for Nerve Conduction Studies?
Certain factors or conditions may interfere with the test results. These tests are usually avoided in individuals with swelling, bleeding or obesity and those taking medications, such as skeletal muscle relaxants and anticholinergics. Precautions may also need to be taken if you have a cardiac defibrillator or pacemaker.
How should I Prepare for Nerve Conduction Studies?
Generally, nerve conduction studies are non-invasive and do not require any specific preparations like fasting or anesthetics. You might be advised to follow a few guidelines prior to the test:
- Discuss your medical history with your healthcare provider.
- Your healthcare provider will explain the procedure in detail and written consent will be taken, so you can clarify any doubts before the procedure.
- Do not apply moisturizer or oils over the skin prior to the procedure.
- Dress in comfortable and light clothes.
- Do not wear jewelry or metal objects.
- Do not smoke or consume alcohol on the day of the test.
How are Nerve Conduction Studies Performed?
Nerve conduction studies will be done usually under the guidance of neurologist on an outpatient basis. It involves the following steps:
- You will be asked to remove your clothes and a hospital gown will be provided.
- You will sit or lie down comfortably exposing the area of the body to be examined.
- A technician or neurologist will locate the nerve and apply a gel on the overlying skin.
- Recording electrodes will be attached over the skin and stimulating electrodes will be placed at a distance.
- Electrical impulses will be transmitted through the stimulating electrodes.
- The stimulation of the nerve and response will be displayed on the monitor and recorded on the reading sheets.
- Once the required information is obtained, the electrodes will be removed and the gel is wiped off.
What can you expect during Nerve Conduction Studies?
You may experience slight discomfort during the procedure. The entire procedure might take about 30-60 minutes. After the procedure you can resume your daily activities right away.
Risks associated with Nerve Conduction Studies
In a nerve conduction study, the chance of any risks or complications is minimal as the amount of electricity that is transmitted is very small. You may experience a brief, burning pain, a tingling sensation, and a twitching of the muscle during the transmission of the electrical impulses.