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Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS)

A nerve conduction study (NCS) stimulates specific nerves and then records their ability to send the impulse to the muscle. It can show if and where there is a blockage involving the nerve pathway to the muscle.

Nerve conduction studies are most commonly done to find and evaluate any degree of damage to the nerves that travel from the brain and spinal to the much smaller nerves that branch out from them. It also helps to diagnose if there are any nerve disorders present, such as carpal tunnel syndromes. Locations of abnormal sensations may also be detected, such as with numbness, tingling, and pain.

During a NCS study, several electrodes are placed on the skin directly over the particular that is to be stimulated. Next an additional electrode is placed directly over the muscle that is supplied by the corresponding nerve. After the electrodes are placed and attached to the machine, several short electrical pulses are sent to the nerve. During this time there may be brief sensations of burning pain, tingling sensations, and twitching of the muscles. Keep in mind that each pulse is very brief and typically lasts less than a millisecond. At this time the machine records the time it takes for the muscle to contract in response the electrical stimuli. The nerves on the opposite side of the body are also recorded for comparison purposes.

The time it takes to undergo a NCS varies. It can take any where from 30 minutes to an hour depending upon how many areas are being study at that time.

For more detailed information or questions please contact your doctor. This information is not to be substituted for medical advice.