What is an Electrodiagnostic Study?
An Electrodiagnostic Study helps determine if a patient's pain is affecting nerves and muscles in their body. The study usually includes two components - Nerve Conduction Study (NCS) and Electromyogram (EMG). The study is requested when a patient complains of numbness, tingling, burning pain, and/or weakness. The study is performed while the patient is lying either on their back, side, or abdomen and takes about 60 minutes to complete. Best efforts are made to keep any patient pain or discomfort to an absolute minimum.
How is an Electrodiagnostic Study performed?
A Nerve Conduction Study involves a small electrodes taped on the skin with applies a brief electric stimulus to motor and sensory nerves. The patient may experience a tingling sensation because of the nerve stimulation. This study allows the physician to assess the electrical responses of the nerves being stimulated.
An Electromyogram involves inserting a fine pin electrode into the muscle to analyze the electrical activity in the muscle. The patient may experience mild, temporary discomfort because of the insertion of the electrode. This study allows the physician to assess if the muscle, and the nerve supplying that muscle, is working properly.
On the day of your appointment
After your appointment
An Electrodiagnostic Study helps determine if a patient's pain is affecting nerves and muscles in their body. The study usually includes two components - Nerve Conduction Study (NCS) and Electromyogram (EMG). The study is requested when a patient complains of numbness, tingling, burning pain, and/or weakness. The study is performed while the patient is lying either on their back, side, or abdomen and takes about 60 minutes to complete. Best efforts are made to keep any patient pain or discomfort to an absolute minimum.
How is an Electrodiagnostic Study performed?
A Nerve Conduction Study involves a small electrodes taped on the skin with applies a brief electric stimulus to motor and sensory nerves. The patient may experience a tingling sensation because of the nerve stimulation. This study allows the physician to assess the electrical responses of the nerves being stimulated.
An Electromyogram involves inserting a fine pin electrode into the muscle to analyze the electrical activity in the muscle. The patient may experience mild, temporary discomfort because of the insertion of the electrode. This study allows the physician to assess if the muscle, and the nerve supplying that muscle, is working properly.
On the day of your appointment
- Please arrive approximately 15 minutes early to complete the registration process
- Do not apply any body lotion on the day of the appointment
After your appointment
- Mild soreness may persist for a day or so following the procedure. Notify your physician if you experience increasing pain, tenderness, swelling, or pus at the needle insertion sites.
- Your referring health care provider will receive a detailed report within 1-2 days
- The next step in your evaluation and/or treatment will be determined based on the study results