What do nerve conduction studies show

A nerve conduction study is usually done along with electromyography EMG. The nerve conduction study stimulates specific nerves and records their ability to send the impulse to the muscle.

The study can show where there is a blockage of the nerve pathway. Nerve conduction studies are done to:. In a nerve conduction study, several flat metal disc electrodes are taped or pasted to your skin.

A shock-emitting electrode is placed directly over the nerve to be studied. A recording electrode is placed over the muscles supplied by that nerve. Several, brief electrical pulses are sent to the nerve. You will feel a brief, burning pain, a tingling sensation and a twitching of the muscle when the electrical pulse is applied.

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Read this next. Sciatic nerve pain radiates from the lower back into the legs. Pain can be mild or severe. Weakness, numbness, and tingling in the legs and feet are also common. An NCV test can help diagnose compression or damage in the sciatic nerve. It can also detect any problems with the nerve itself. At least 20 million people in the United States are affected by some form of peripheral neuropathy , according to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke.

The peripheral nerves are responsible for sending information from the brain and spinal cord to the rest of the body, and vice versa.

When peripheral nerves are damaged, people may feel weakness, numbness, and pain in their hands and feet. While these are the most common locations for symptoms, they can also occur elsewhere. Most of the time, symptoms can improve with treatment, especially if caused by underlying conditions, such as diabetes , autoimmune diseases, and vitamin deficiencies.

Carpal tunnel syndrome CTS occurs when the median nerve, which runs from the forearm into the hand, becomes compressed at the wrist. Symptoms of CTS include numbness, tingling, and pain in the thumb and fingers that may extend into the arm. An NCV test can check nerve function in the median nerve and help a doctor determine the right treatment plan. The first signs of GBS are weakness and tingling in the legs. Recovery from GBS is slow , but most people recover fully.

The most severe cases, however, may cause paralysis and disability. Electrical signals along nerves affected by GBS are slower than others. The doctor performing the NCV test will explain the procedure and give the person an opportunity to ask questions. There is no sedation or fasting required for an NCV test, although some people may need to take additional precautions based on any existing health conditions they have.

In some cases, both the nerves and muscles can be affected. Before starting a nerve conduction study, your neurologist will discuss possible factors that can affect the results of the study.

For example, excess alcohol consumption, hypothyroidism, diabetes, systemic diseases, or neurologic medications such as muscle relaxants, opioids, or psychotropic medications can all affect the results of a nerve conduction study.

Additionally, your neurologist will ask you if you have a pacemaker since the electrodes used in the study may interfere with your device. When preparing for your nerve conduction study, there is not much you will need to do beforehand. The main way to prepare for a nerve conduction study is to temporarily avoid using lotion or oils on your skin in the days leading up to your appointment. This is because lotions and oils can interfere with the electrodes ability to stick properly to the skin.

In some cases, your neurologist may also ask you to temporarily abstain from caffeine consumption.