Measure how well your nerves transmit signals.
Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS), also called nerve conduction testing or NCV testing, measure how quickly and effectively electrical signals travel through your nerves. This test helps identify nerve damage, compression, and disorders affecting the peripheral nervous system.
Nerve conduction testing is frequently performed alongside an EMG to provide a complete picture of nerve and muscle health.
What is Nerve Conduction Testing?
During a nerve conduction study, small adhesive electrodes are placed on your skin. A brief electrical stimulus is applied to evaluate how quickly and efficiently your nerves carry signals.
The information helps determine whether symptoms are caused by nerve compression, nerve injury, or other neurological conditions.
Symptoms That May Require Nerve Conduction Testing
You may benefit from nerve conduction testing if you have:
- Numbness
- Tingling
- Burning sensations
- Weakness
- Loss of coordination
- Pain radiating into your arms or legs
- Suspected nerve compression
Conditions NCS Can Help Diagnose
Nerve conduction testing commonly evaluates:
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Cubital tunnel syndrome
- Peripheral neuropathy
- Diabetic neuropathy
- Pinched nerves
- Sciatica
- Radiculopathy
- Nerve injuries
- Other peripheral nerve disorders
What Happens During the Test?
During your appointment:
- Small electrodes are placed on the skin.
- Gentle electrical impulses stimulate the nerve.
- The equipment records how quickly and strongly the nerve responds.
Many patients describe the sensation as brief tapping or mild electrical pulses that last only seconds.
How Nerve Conduction Testing Differs from EMG
Although often performed together, the two tests evaluate different structures.
| EMG | Nerve Conduction Study |
|---|---|
| Measures muscle electrical activity | Measures nerve signal speed and strength |
| Uses a small needle electrode | Uses surface electrodes placed on the skin |
| Detects muscle disorders and nerve dysfunction | Detects nerve compression and damage |
Together, these tests provide a comprehensive evaluation of your neuromuscular system.
Preparing for Your Appointment
- Wear loose clothing.
- Avoid lotions or creams.
- Continue medications unless instructed otherwise.
- Remove jewelry near the testing area.
After Your Appointment
Some temporary muscle soreness is normal and usually resolves within a day or two. Your results are reviewed by your Clinical Electrophysiologist and sent to your referring provider, typically within 24 hours.