​​​Electromyography/Nerve Conduction Studies (EMG/NCS) for Nerve and Muscle Function  

​Electromyography (EMG)/Nerve Conduction Study (NCS) checks the integrity of the peripheral nerves and muscle function.  Electromyography helps determine if there are any abnormalities in the muscle or the nerves going to it.  Nerve conduction studies (NCS) test shows how well signals travel along a nerve and can help find the cause of abnormal nerve function. 

The examination is essential for evaluating symptoms of numbness, tingling, pain, weakness, fatigue, exercise intolerance and muscle cramping.  

A trained technologist or a qualified doctor performs NCS test.  A doctor who has had special training examines the recording.

  • Do not apply skin lotions on the day of the test.  
  • Wear loosely fitted clothing to allow easy access to upper parts of the arms and legs.
  • Inform the doctor prior to the test if you are taking blood thinners or have had haemophilia.  
  • Inform the physician or technologist prior to the test if you have a cardiac pacemaker. ​​

During the electromyography (EMG) examination, the doctor inserts a small needle into the muscle to record the electrical activity of the muscle (pain medicine cannot be given for this test).  This test can help determine if there are any abnormalities in the muscle or the nerve going to it.  The type of illness or symptoms you have will determine how many muscles and nerves need to be tested.

Small electric pulses are applied to the nerve at different sites along the nerve and recorded.  The electric pulses cause a brief, mild tingling feeling. There are no side effects from this test.

Some patients with dystonia may be given a Botox Injection to help the muscles relax. ​