Private Nerve Studies and EMG

Private Nerve Conduction Studies and EMG Myograms from UKS Medical Diagnostics...

What is an EMG?

An EMG (Electromyogram) records the electrical activity of muscles. When muscles are in action they produce an electrical current which is usually proportional to the level of the muscle activity. A myogram is used to detect abnormal electrical activity that can occur in many conditions, e.g. muscular dystrophy, inflammation, pinched nerves, damage to nerves in the arms and legs, carpal tunnel syndrome, and others. The electrodes which monitor the electrical activity of the muscles are either placed on the surface of the skin in form of a pad or into the muscle in the form of a needle.

What are Nerve Conduction Studies?

It is common practice to combine an EMG with a Nerve Conduction Velocity Test also called Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS) which show how the body's electrical signals are travelling to a nerve in the limbs.

What do Nerve Condition Studies and EMG involve?

During private nerve studies a patch-like electrode on the skin will give a small electrical stimulus to a nerve where the resulting electrical activity is recorded by other electrodes and consequently by a graph. Depending on the nerves to be tested, a needle electrode needs to be inserted through the skin into the muscle. You will be asked to contract the muscle (e.g. by bending the arm). Several nerves may be tested and a short, mild tingling sensation might be experienced.

A combined nerve test usually takes between 40 and 90 minutes with no lasting side effects, but you should tell the medical staff if you are taking aspirin, blood thinners, have a pacemaker or suffer from haemophilia.

Private Nerve Conduction Studies - What to do next?

If you are concerned enough to require private nerve studies or a private EEG, ECG, EMG Nerve Study, even if you think you are not eligible, talk to your doctor or call UKS Medical Diagnostics on 0161 969 4000 or contact us online by completing our short enquiry form found here.

Media procedures will be arranged at a convenient local site to meet your needs.