Steven W. Thatcher, M.D.
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Electromyography  :  Nerve Conduction Testing   
 
Your doctor may have sent you for EMG NCV testing, and we are here to provide this test for you in a safe and comfortable environment.  EMG NCV testing is specific testing for nerve related issues and problems.  Some of the dozens of medical conditions it can detect include:  carpal tunnel syndrome, peripheral nerve entrapments in the arms and legs, spinal nerve entrapments including "sciatica", and muscular conditions such as myopathy.  It is a very specifc and accurate test for conditions of the nerve that can cause pain, weakness or sensation issues (e.g. numbness, tingling, pins and needles).
 
The test involves no preparation by you as the patient; we ask that you do not use skin creams or lotions if possible on the day of the test (but the test need not be rescheduled if you have applied a skin cream).  You may drive yourself to and from the test and the test generally takes 30-45 minutes.
 
During the test, small metal "buttons" are applied to the skin on the arms or legs, and a gentle electrical impulse is delivered to the nerve on top of the skin.  There is a brief discomfort, similar to flicking a rubber band on the skin surface.  It is not an electrical "shock".  By the data collected from several nerves in this manner, the test can define the exact nerve or nerves causing the problem.
 
The second part of the test is the EMG, where a very fine, flexible and disposable "pin" is gently placed under the skin in a few locations to record the nerve supply to the muscle.  There is no electricity at all, and no significant bleeding.  Patients on Coumadin, aspirin and other medications need not stop their medications for this test. 
 
The EMG NCV test, based on past history with older model machines and outdated testing equipment, has been passed on by some to be a painful test.  I have personally had the complete test performed on myself on many occasions, including teaching students, and with modern technique, it is safe and with minimal discomfort and no pain.
 
Once we have the data, results will need to be calculated and a report generated for your referring doctor.  This will take 1 day. 
 
If you are having the symptoms described above, please feel free to contact my office for a initial new patient consultation, and we can discuss whether an EMG NCV or other test is right for you. 
 
-- Steven W. Thatcher, M.D.