Nerve conditions can range in seriousness from just annoying to severely debilitating. They present as tingling or numbness in your hands and arms, pain in your neck, shoulders, and back, or weakness in your limbs. Some conditions get worse over time, while others come on suddenly. If you experience any of these symptoms, do not ignore them. Discuss your symptoms with your doctor as soon as possible. Document their severity, what part of your body is affected, and the circumstances that you experience the symptoms. Be insistent if your doctor doesn’t take you seriously.

Sometimes you can get relief by doing exercises or going to physical therapy. For other problems, you’ll need to get testing done. There are several types of tests that you might need. EMG/NCS testing can be a key piece in getting a diagnosis of your problem. The test can help to diagnose carpal tunnel syndrome, neuropathies caused by diabetes, pinched nerves from compressed discs or arthritis.

EMG/NCS Testing Helps to Diagnose Many Nerve Conditions

EMG stands for electromyography. During the test, the technician will insert a thin needle, called an electrode, into the muscle tissue. As the muscle contracts and relaxes, the electrode measures the electrical activity in the muscles. Very often your doctor will order a nerve conduction study (NCS) at the same time. The NCS test measures how fast electricity is conducted by the nerve, as well as how strongly. An EMG/NCS test will reveal whether you have a nerve condition. Further testing will probably be necessary to help your doctor come up with a treatment plan. You may also be referred to a specialist who sees people with your specific nerve condition every day.

On the day of the test, be sure not to use any lotion or oil on your skin. This can keep the tape from sticking and keeping the electrodes in place.

Get in contact with Precision Medical Group if you suspect you have any nerve conditions.