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EMG/NCS

Pain, Spine, & Rehab Associates Our Services EMG/NCS

Pain, Spine, & Rehab Associates

Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation & Pain Medicine Specialists located in Gaithersburg, MD

If you have pain in your back, neck, or anywhere in your body, diagnosing its cause is critical to designing an effective treatment plan. The team at Pain, Spine & Rehab Associates in Gaithersburg, Maryland, includes electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies (NCS) in their suite of diagnostic tests and tools. If you’re looking for state-of-the-art diagnostics and treatment, call Pain, Spine & Rehab Associates or schedule a consultation online today.

EMG/NCS Q & A

What is an EMG?

Electromyography (EMG) evaluates the health of your muscles and the nerves that control them. Your motor neurons transmit signals to your muscles, telling them to contract and relax. The team at Pain, Spine & Rehab Associates uses EMGs to monitor the nerve signals in your muscles and identify any irregularities that could be causing your pain. 

What is an NCS?

A nerve conduction study (NCS) is a test that measures how well signals travel through your nerves to your muscles. The test stimulates specific nerves and monitors how the impulse travels to your muscles. An NCS shows if there is a blockage or damage in the nerve that prevents signals from reaching your muscles or your brain.

Why would I need an EMG or NCS?

The team at Pain, Spine & Rehab Associates uses EMG and NCS testing to identify the cause of symptoms such as:

  • Numbness

  • Tingling

  • Muscle weakness

  • Pain and cramping

  • Twitching

They often combine EMG and NCS tests to gather as much information about your nerve and muscle health as possible. The tests often reveal the root cause of your symptoms, which may include:

  • Muscle disorders

  • Nerve conduction problems

  • Radiculopathies (nerve compression in the spine)

  • Peripheral nerve disorders

Pain, Spine & Rehab Associates offers electrodiagnostic testing and nerve conduction studies for patients of the practice, as well as for patients referred by other providers. 

What should I expect during an EMG or NCS?

During an EMG, your provider attaches electrodes to your skin covering the area where you have symptoms to measure how well your nerves send electrical signals. They also place thin needle electrodes into your muscles to measure activity while your muscles are at rest or contracted. You may feel a slight pinch when they insert the needles, but most patients tolerate the test well. 

During an NCS, your provider places two electrodes on your skin, near the area where you’re having symptoms. One electrode sends a mild electrical pulse, and the other receives it. The electrodes collect information about how efficiently the pulse travels through your nerves. You may feel gentle tingling sensations, but it shouldn’t be painful. 

If you’re having symptoms that indicate a nerve disorder, call Pain, Spine & Rehab Associates or make an appointment online today for expert diagnosis including EMG and NCS testing.

 
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