Electromyography, or EMG, is the recording of the electrical activity of the muscles and peripheral nerves. It is used to detect the presence and type of neuromuscular disorders that affect the lower motor neuron, the neuromuscular junctions, skeletal muscle fibers, the primary sensory neuron, or the voluntary reflex activity of the muscle. An EMG can detect even minimal loss of nerve function related to a single muscle.

Nerve Conduction Velocity Requisition, or NCV, records the speed of the conduction of motor and sensory fibers in the peripheral nerves. Conduction studies are helpful in diagnosing neuropathy of diabetic, alcohol, metabolic, and nutritional disorders. They are also useful in identifying compression or trauma to the nerves, such as that involved in carpal tunnel syndrome or ulnar nerve neuropathy.

EMG and NCV are frequently performed together to diagnose the nature and severity of a neuromuscular problem. The combined procedure takes about 15 to 30 minutes to complete. During the NCV portion of the procedure, electrodes are placed onto different nerve and/or muscle sites (e.g., hand, arm, leg) with tape. A stimulator is applied to a direct area of the nerve or muscle, passing a small amount of electrical current that makes the hand, arm, or leg jerk a bit. The patient typically experiences very minimal, if any, pain during NCV testing.

During the EMG portion of the test, the physician inserts a very fine wire or needle into the muscle to be tested. No electrical current is used during this procedure, and most patients tolerate EMG with little or no discomfort.

Southern Utah Neurological and Neurodiagnostics requests the following of patients to ensure that quality EMG/NCV results can be obtained: 

• Do not use any lotions or perfumed skin softeners. These substances can interfere with the recording of electrical conductivity.
• Wear loose-fitting clothing such as a sweat suit or a T-shirt and shorts. Your upper arms and/or legs may need to be accessible for the testing of nerves or muscles.
• Remove all hand/arm jewelry (e.g., watches, rings, bracelets) before testing.
• Eat meals and take your regular medications as usual on the day of the test.

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