Electromyography (EMG) and Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS) Information
What are EMG and NCS?
Electromyography (EMG) and Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS) are diagnostic procedures used to evaluate the health and performance of muscles and the nerves that control them. These tests are valuable tools for identifying conditions that affect muscle function and nerve integrity, helping physicians understand the underlying causes of symptoms like muscle weakness, numbness, and pain.
Why Might You Need an EMG or NCS?
EMG and NCS are commonly recommended for individuals experiencing symptoms such as — and to help detect or diagnose conditions including:
- Persistent numbness or tingling
- Muscle weakness or loss of muscle function
- Pain in limbs, hands, or feet
- Unexplained muscle cramps or spasms
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Peripheral neuropathy
- Pinched nerves
- Muscular disorders like muscular dystrophy or ALS
How to Prepare for Your EMG/NCS
A little preparation helps us get the clearest, most accurate results. Please follow these guidelines before your appointment.
What to do before the appointment
- Shower or bathe. Wash the areas being tested thoroughly to remove natural body oils.
- Avoid lotions & oils. Do not apply any body lotion, cream, bath oil, or powder on the day of the appointment — these cause sensors and electrodes to slide off and block signal clarity.
- Eat & drink normally. You do not need to fast. Eat a regular meal to maintain your blood sugar and prevent dizziness.
- Avoid caffeine & nicotine. Refrain from coffee, energy drinks, and tobacco for 2–3 hours (or up to 6 hours if instructed) before the test, as they can alter nervous system activity.
- Stay warm. Keep your hands and feet warm — cold muscles don’t conduct electrical signals as well.
- Check your medications. Take your regular medications as prescribed. However, contact your doctor beforehand if you take blood thinners, muscle relaxers, or treatments for myasthenia gravis, as these may need temporary adjustment.
What to bring
- Medication list. A written or digital list of all medications, over-the-counter drugs, and supplements you currently take.
- Medical device notes. Note if you have a pacemaker or an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD).
- Comfortable clothing. Wear loose-fitting clothes that allow easy access to the symptom areas, or bring loose shorts and a short-sleeved shirt to change into.
- Insurance & ID. Your health insurance card and a photo ID.
What to tell the physician
Be sure to explicitly tell the technician or neurologist before the test if you have:
- A pacemaker or implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD)
- Any bleeding disorders
- Blood-thinning medications (such as Warfarin, Eliquis, or Xarelto)
- A history of passing out or feeling lightheaded around needles or other medical procedures
The EMG/NCS Experience
Nerve Conduction Study (NCS)
You may feel a mild, brief shock as each pulse is administered. Most people find this tolerable and report minimal discomfort.
Electromyography (EMG)
Some mild discomfort may be felt when the needle is inserted into the muscle, similar to a pinprick. The test is quick, and discomfort is typically short-lived.
Afterward
Most patients can return to their regular activities immediately. A slight muscle ache may occur but should subside within a day.
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Is EMG/NCS Safe?
Both EMG and NCS are safe, minimally invasive procedures with low risk. Some people may experience mild muscle soreness or bruising where the needle was inserted, but these side effects are temporary. Be sure to let your healthcare provider know if you have a bleeding disorder or are on blood-thinning medications.
How Do EMG and NCS Work?
Nerve Conduction Study (NCS)
Electromyography (EMG)
Your EMG/NCS Questions Answered
Some people report mild discomfort, especially during the needle insertion for EMG or the small shocks of NCS. However, both are well-tolerated.
Results are generally available within a few days, and your healthcare provider will review them with you during a follow-up visit.
Yes, EMG and NCS tests don’t involve sedation or affect your ability to drive.
Insurance & MPN Coverage
We accept major PPO insurance plans and are in-network for the workers’ compensation MPNs listed here.
Insurances We Accept
In-Network MPNs
- Absolute Solutions
- AmTrust NA
- CIGA
- Clarity Dx
- CompWest
- Homelink
- Premier
- Premier Plus
- Rising Select
- Streamline
- Total Network Resources
- Zenith
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