The electrodes will be placed a specific distance apart. Typically, you will sit or lie down for the test.Ī provider will attach the electrodes to your skin near the identified nerve with a special paste. You may be asked to wear a gown if clothing needs to be removed. To begin, you will be asked to remove any clothing, accessories, glasses or hearing aids, or other metal objects. A neurologist performs the NCV, as they specialize in brain and nerve disorders, though a technical expert may also be present. The Process of an NCV TestĪn NCV will usually be an outpatient procedure unless you are already staying as an inpatient at the hospital. These tests may also identify the cause of symptoms like numbness, tingling, or pain. Determining if muscles and nerves are working properlyĬommon disorders diagnosed using an NCV may include the following:.Exploring muscle weakness or limitations.Finding the source of pain, cramping, tingling, or weakness.Some reasons for an NCV include the following: An NCV will detect a problem with a nerve, while an EMG would detect a muscle not working properly in response to a nerve’s stimulus, so they will often be performed at the same time. Why Might I Need an NCV?ĭoctors may request this form of diagnostic imaging to diagnose or rule out a number of conditions, or to tell the difference between a nerve disorder and a muscle disorder. In some cases, this may be performed along with an electromyography (EMG), which measures electrical activity in the muscles. The speed is then calculated by measuring the distance between electrodes and the time it takes an electrical impulse to travel between electrodes. All resulting electrical activity is recorded for each individual nerve being tested. During the test, a pair of electrode patches are applied to your skin near the nerve: one stimulates the nerve with a mild electrical impulse, while the second electrode records it. The intention is to identify any nerve damage that stops this movement from occurring as it should. How Does an NCV Test Work?Īn NCV, which can also be called a Nerve Conduction Study (NCS), works by measuring electrical impulses as they move through your nerve. If it’s recommended you undergo this test, read on to understand what to expect and what possible outcomes this test can have. These tests are used to look for and diagnose nerve problems and related muscular issues.
But if you are experiencing symptoms consistent with a neurological problem, you may be sent for something known as a Nerve Conduction Velocity (NCV) Test. These tests are versatile and can be used to look for anything from a muscle strain to a broken bone. When it comes to diagnostic imaging, you probably first think of something like an x-ray, or even an MRI.
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