What is a Nerve Conduction Study?
A Nerve Conduction Study (NCS) is a diagnostic test used to measure how quickly electrical signals move through your peripheral nerves. It helps detect nerve damage and assess conditions that affect nerve function, such as neuropathy, carpal tunnel syndrome, or radiculopathy (pinched nerves in the spine).
During the test, small electrodes are placed on the skin over specific nerves and muscles. A mild electrical impulse is then delivered to see how effectively your nerves respond. NCS is often performed alongside electromyography (EMG) for a complete evaluation of nerve and muscle function.
What to Expect During an NCS
Nerve conduction studies are typically performed in an outpatient setting and take 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the number of nerves being tested. You’ll remain awake during the procedure, and no incisions or needles are used during the NCS itself.
Electrodes are placed on your skin, and a brief electrical pulse is sent through the nerve. While you may feel a quick, tingling, or tapping sensation, most people find the test tolerable. Your provider may test several nerves to compare function across different areas of the body.
There’s no special preparation required, but you may be asked to avoid using lotions or oils on your skin beforehand, as they can affect electrode placement.
What to Expect After a Nerve Conduction Study
Once the test is complete, you can return to your normal activities right away. There are no lasting side effects from the electrical pulses, and the skin where electrodes were placed may be slightly red or irritated for a short time.
Your doctor will review the results and may combine them with findings from an EMG, physical exam, or imaging studies. If the test reveals slowed or blocked nerve signals, it may indicate conditions like peripheral neuropathy, nerve compression, or injury.
Results from the NCS can help guide your treatment plan, whether that involves physical therapy, medication, lifestyle changes, or surgical options in more severe cases.
Frequently Asked Questions
NCS is used to evaluate symptoms like numbness, tingling, weakness, or burning pain. It helps diagnose conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome, sciatica, or generalized peripheral neuropathy.
Most patients feel mild discomfort, described as a brief tingling or tapping sensation. The test is not considered painful and does not require anesthesia.
Yes, NCS is a key tool in diagnosing neuropathy by measuring how well nerves send signals. It can detect slowed or blocked conduction associated with nerve damage.
Common signs include numbness, tingling, burning pain, muscle weakness, and decreased coordination. These symptoms may come and go or worsen over time.
Treatment depends on the cause. Options may include physical therapy, medications (like anti-inflammatories or nerve pain relievers), lifestyle adjustments, or surgery to relieve pressure on the nerve.
