What is an EMG and NCV?

Electromyography (EMG) records the electrical activity of muscle groups. Small needles are gently placed with the muscles and electrical activity is shown on a screen. Theses findings are helpful in diagnosing muscle disease and nerve compression. Nerve Conduction Velocity (NCV) studies aid in the diagnosis of nerve injuries and disease affecting the peripheral nervous system. Nerves are stimulated electrically by using electrodes on the skin's surface. They measure the time it takes for the stimulus to travel along a specific nerve. For instance, in patients with diabetes, nerve reactions are slower. This test varies in length from 20 to 60 minutes.

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