The test is used to help detect neuromuscular abnormalities that can occur in many diseases and conditions, including muscular dystrophy, inflammation of muscles, pinched nerves, peripheral nerve damage (damage to nerves in the arms and legs), and others.
During the test, one or more small needles (also called electrodes) are inserted through the skin into the muscle. The electrical activity picked up by the electrodes is then displayed on an oscilloscope (a monitor that displays electrical activity in the form of waves). An audio-amplifier is used so the activity can be heard.
After all of the electrodes have been inserted, patient may be asked to contract the muscle. The action potential (size and shape of the wave) that is created on the oscilloscope provides information about the ability of the muscle to respond when the nerves are moved. As the muscle is contracted more forcefully, more and more muscle fibers are activated, producing action potentials. This helps in understanding the level of muscle abnormalities or repair.
NCV
NCV (Nerve Conduction Velocity) is a measurement of the speed of conduction of an electrical impulse through a nerve.
NCV can determine nerve damage and destruction, and is often performed at the same time as EMG. Both procedures help to detect the presence, location and extent of diseases that damage the nerves and muscles like Cervical or Lumbar Radiculopathy, Peripheral Nerve Deficits, Sciatica, Nerve Pain Cubital Tunnel Syndrome, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome etc.
