An EMG and nerve conduction study (NCS) checks whether a nerve in your neck or arm is pinched or hurt. A physician performs the test and writes the report. Numbness, tingling or weakness in the arm or hand can come from the neck, the elbow or the wrist.

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Your physician orders this test. You only get it if it is ordered for you.

What is nerve test of the arm (EMG/NCS)?

An EMG and nerve conduction study (NCS) checks whether a nerve in your neck or arm is pinched or hurt. A physician performs the test and writes the report.

How does it help?

Numbness, tingling or weakness in the arm or hand can come from the neck, the elbow or the wrist. This test shows where the nerve is hurt and how badly, so the treatment goes to the right place.

What does it feel like?

Small pads send quick electrical taps along the nerve; it feels like a snap. Then a thin needle checks a few muscles, which feels like a pinch. Most people go back to normal activity right after.

How do you get ready?

Wear loose sleeves. Do not put lotion on your arms that day.

What should you tell us first?

Tell us first if you take blood thinners, have a pacemaker, or have swelling or skin problems in the arm

How long does it take?

About 30 to 60 minutes.

What to remember

It finds where a nerve is hurt and how badly.
No lotion on your arms that day.
Tell us about blood thinners or a pacemaker.

Show us you have it: Tell us how you will get ready on the test day. We go over it again at your next visit, and you can ask us to explain anything a second time.

Other tests in the program

This is part of our physician-directed physiotherapy program, where a physician orders and supervises every treatment and no treatment starts unless a physician is available right away.