What to Expect During Your EMG & Nerve Conduction Study
Understanding your neurophysiology testing. A complete guide to preparation, the procedure, and what your results mean.
"EMG and nerve conduction studies are among the most valuable diagnostic tools in neurology. Understanding what to expect can help you feel more comfortable during the procedure."
🔬 Quick Overview
About the Tests
- • NCS measures nerve signal speed
- • EMG measures muscle electrical activity
- • Combined duration: 30-60 minutes
- • Results often available same day
Common Reasons for Testing
- • Numbness or tingling
- • Muscle weakness
- • Carpal tunnel syndrome
- • Suspected nerve damage
Understanding the Tests
Nerve Conduction Study (NCS)
Measures how fast electrical signals travel through your nerves. Small electrodes are placed on your skin, and mild electrical pulses are used to stimulate the nerve.
Electromyography (EMG)
Measures the electrical activity in your muscles. A thin needle electrode is inserted into the muscle to record activity at rest and during contraction.
Before Your Test: Preparation Checklist
Shower normally before your appointment
Clean skin helps the electrodes work better.
Do NOT apply lotions, oils, or creams
These can interfere with electrode contact and affect test accuracy.
Wear loose, comfortable clothing
You may need to remove clothing from the areas being tested, or change into a gown.
Take your regular medications
Unless specifically instructed otherwise by your doctor.
Eat normally before the test
There's no need to fast. Being comfortable helps you relax during the procedure.
Plan your parking ahead
Check our parking options to allow extra time and avoid appointment stress.
⚠️ Important: Tell Your Doctor If You...
- • Have a pacemaker or other implanted electrical device
- • Take blood thinners (warfarin, aspirin, etc.)
- • Have a bleeding disorder
- • Are pregnant or think you might be pregnant
During the Procedure
Step by Step
Positioning
You'll be positioned comfortably, usually lying down or sitting. The area to be tested will be exposed.
Nerve Conduction Study
Small electrode stickers are placed on your skin. You'll feel brief, mild electrical pulses - like a small static shock. This is not harmful.
EMG Testing
A thin needle electrode (similar to acupuncture) is inserted into the muscle. You'll be asked to relax and then gently contract the muscle.
Recording
The electrical signals are recorded and displayed on a screen. Your doctor will analyze the patterns to assess nerve and muscle function.
What You Might Feel
- • Brief tingling during NCS
- • Mild discomfort with needle insertion
- • Slight muscle soreness after (similar to exercise)
Good to Know
- • Most people tolerate it well
- • No sedation required
- • You can drive home afterward
After the Test
Immediately After
- ✓ Resume normal activities right away
- ✓ Drive yourself home
- ✓ Return to work if you wish
- ✓ Eat and drink normally
In the Following Days
- • Mild soreness may occur (like after exercise)
- • Small bruises at needle sites are normal
- • Any discomfort typically resolves within 24-48 hours
Understanding Your Results
Your neurologist will analyze the results and discuss them with you. The tests can help diagnose conditions such as:
Nerve Conditions
- • Carpal tunnel syndrome
- • Peripheral neuropathy
- • Pinched nerves
Muscle Disorders
- • Muscular dystrophy
- • Myopathies
- • Inflammatory myositis
Motor Neuron Disease
- • ALS
- • Spinal muscular atrophy
- • Other MND variants
Questions About Your Upcoming Test?
If you have questions about your scheduled EMG or nerve conduction study, don't hesitate to contact us.
Contact Us