EMG and NCV at Twins Chiropractic and Physical Medicine
Experiencing numbness and tingling in your arms or legs is always a worry-some sensation-especially when the treatment plan received doesn’t seem to be helping.
Here at Twins Chiropractic and Physical Medicine , our doctor’s listen and will create a treatment plan based on individual patient’s needs. Although all healing is a process, at times suggested treatment plans will not work for all injuries. There are multiple steps and testing doctor’s need in order to help diagnose the root of an injury-two forms of testing that can help with diagnosis are EMG and NCV, which we happily offer!
What are EMG and NCV?
Electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction velocity (NCV) are forms of testing that measure the electrical activity of muscles and nerves. These tests help doctors diagnose unexplained symptoms related to the spine such as numbness and tingling, muscle cramping or twitching and weakness in arms and legs. EMG measures muscle response to a nerve stimulator to determine if there is nerve damage and detects any signs of blocking or slowing down in nerves. The test is performed by inserting a small fine needle, known as an electrode, through the skin into the muscle. From there, contractions of the muscle are recorded on a device known as an oscilloscope and doctors can determine results.
NCV measures the speed at which electrical impulses travel throughout the nerve. Healthy nerves are stronger and travel faster than those that are damaged. In order to test nerve damage or dysfunction a flat electrode is placed on the skin in multiple places and a low level of electricity is passed through the electrode to stimulate the nerves. The velocity of the impulse is then transmitted onto an oscilloscope or computer system for results. Once testing is complete, our doctors will go over results with the patient within the following 5-7 days.
Generally, EMG and NCV testing are performed together. Testing generally takes about 20-30 minutes and can be done in office. Some patients may experience slight bruising or soreness after the testing-but this is completely normal. We understand being injuries are grueling– especially when you are unable to perform simple everyday movements such as lifting your arms or standing. Our doctors at Twins Chiropractic and Physical Medicine are here to help you regain a sense of normalcy-schedule your visit with us today!
