If you suffer from sciatica, EMG and NCS tests can be a helpful tools in diagnosing and treating the pain. An EMG test can be done alone, but generally is performed with NCS. Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS) and Electromyography (EMG) are two parts of a test that are usually used together. NCS tests determine the health of your nerves. A mild electrical impulse is administered to the skin right over the nerve to see how you react.  

Next comes the EMG test. This is a test that detects your body’s neuromuscular response to stimulation. While the test is in progress, you will be asked to use certain movements which contract your muscles. An EMG can be done by either inserting tiny electrodes through your skin into muscle or by using electrode stickers, which are placed on the surface of the skin. 

Routine Steps in EMG and NCS Tests

In normal EMG and NCS tests, no electrical activity occurs at rest. During stimulation, muscles react in a smooth pattern. In an abnormal EMG result, strange patterns and wave shapes occur and there is electrical activity even at rest. Your doctor can use this information to make a clinical diagnosis of a condition such as radiculopathy and then create a treatment program. 

If you are preparing for this test, don’t use any hand or body lotion the day of the test. Also, let the clinician know if you are taking aspirin or any other medications or if you have a pacemaker or defibrillator. The information that this testing provides is very valuable. Make sure you prepare properly.

By using an EMG, you can detect if a nervous system disorder or injury is causing muscle weakness or numbness. When you use both tests together, you can differentiate between a muscle disorder or a nerve disorder. Some examples of common findings include progressive muscle disorders, ALS, peripheral nerve disorders, sciatica, radiculopathy, and herniated disc.