NEURODIAGNOSTIC SERVICES

What are NCV and EMG tests?

Nerve Conduction Studies (NCV/NCS) and Electromyography (EMG) are specialised tests that help assess how peripheral nerves and muscles are functioning. They are often performed together, depending on the symptoms and the clinical question.

Nerve Conduction Studies (NCV / NCS)

Small electrical impulses are used to stimulate selected nerves. Recording electrodes measure the responses, helping assess how well and how quickly signals travel along the nerves. The test may help identify the site, pattern and severity of certain nerve disorders.

Electromyography (EMG)

A fine, single-use needle electrode is placed into selected muscles to record their electrical activity at rest and during gentle contraction. This helps assess muscle function and the nerve supply to the muscles.

When may these tests be advised?

Your neurologist may recommend NCV and/or EMG when symptoms or examination findings suggest a peripheral nerve, nerve-root or muscle problem. Examples include:

· Numbness, tingling, burning sensations or altered sensation in the hands or feet.

· Weakness, muscle wasting, cramps or unexplained loss of muscle function.

· Suspected peripheral neuropathy, including diabetic neuropathy.

· Nerve compression or entrapment, such as carpal tunnel syndrome or ulnar neuropathy.

· Possible cervical or lumbosacral radiculopathy (pinched nerve roots).

· Assessment of selected neuromuscular disorders, including disorders affecting the motor nerves or muscles.

How is the test performed?

Clinical review

The test is planned according to your symptoms, examination and the clinical question.

Nerve conduction study

Surface electrodes are placed on the skin. Brief, controlled electrical stimuli are delivered to selected nerves.

Needle EMG, if required

A fine needle electrode is gently inserted into selected muscles to record electrical activity.

Review of findings

The recorded responses are analysed and interpreted in the context of your clinical assessment.

How should you prepare?

· Please arrive with clean skin. Avoid applying creams, oils or lotions to your arms or legs on the day of the test.

· Wear comfortable clothing that allows access to the area being examined.

· Inform the doctor if you take blood thinners, have a bleeding disorder, a pacemaker or implanted electrical device, or have any relevant medical condition.

· Bring your referral note, previous test reports and relevant medical records.

· Do not stop prescribed medicines unless your treating doctor specifically advises you to do so.

Is the test painful? Is it safe?

During NCV, you may feel brief tingling or a tapping sensation from the electrical stimulation. Needle EMG can cause temporary discomfort when the needle is inserted or the muscle is activated. Mild soreness or a small bruise can occasionally occur. The test is generally well tolerated, and the procedure is tailored to the individual.

Understanding your report

NCV and EMG findings are interpreted alongside your history and neurological examination. Not every nerve or muscle condition is detected by these tests, and a normal result does not exclude every possible neurological disorder. Your doctor will explain what the findings mean and whether any further evaluation is needed.

Book your NCV / EMG appointment

For test availability, preparation guidance and appointments, please contact MY NEUROLOGY CLINIC.

What is an EEG?

An electroencephalogram (EEG) is a painless, non-invasive investigation that records the electrical activity of the brain. Small sensors (electrodes) are placed on the scalp using conductive paste or gel. These sensors detect brainwave patterns and send the recording to a computer for review.

Why may an EEG be advised?

An EEG may be recommended when a doctor needs to assess brain electrical activity. It is commonly used in the evaluation of:

Suspected seizures or epilepsy.

Episodes of unexplained loss of awareness, blank spells or unusual movements.

Possible sleep-related events or selected sleep disorders.

Unexplained episodes of confusion or altered awareness.

Certain conditions involving altered brain function, when clinically indicated.

Monitoring brain activity in selected hospital or critical-care settings, where appropriate.

How is the EEG performed?

Getting comfortable

You will be seated in a comfortable chair or may be asked to lie down, depending on the recording.

Placing the electrodes

The technician measures the scalp and attaches small electrodes with conductive paste or gel. The electrodes record activity; they do not deliver electric shocks.

Recording brain activity

You will be asked to relax and remain as still as possible. The recording may include periods with your eyes open and closed.

Additional procedures, if needed

Depending on your clinical situation, you may be asked to breathe deeply for a short period (hyperventilation) or look at a flashing light (photic stimulation). These are performed only when appropriate.

Completion

The electrodes are removed and the scalp is cleaned. The recording is then reviewed and interpreted by a qualified doctor.

How should you prepare?

Wash your hair before the test and keep it clean and dry. Do not apply oil, conditioner, hair spray, gel or other styling products.

Eat and drink normally unless your doctor gives you different instructions.

Continue your regular medicines unless your treating doctor specifically advises otherwise. Do not stop anti-seizure medication on your own.

Avoid excess caffeine on the day of the test unless you have been given different instructions.

If a sleep-deprived EEG has been requested, follow the specific sleep and preparation instructions provided by the clinic. Do not restrict sleep unless instructed.

Bring your prescription, previous EEG reports and relevant medical records.

Is an EEG painful or harmful?

A routine EEG is painless and does not involve electric shocks. The electrodes only record the brain’s electrical signals. The conductive paste may leave some residue in your hair, which can be washed out. If activation procedures such as flashing lights or deep breathing are used, they may occasionally provoke symptoms in susceptible people; the team will consider whether these procedures are appropriate for you.

How long does the test take?

A routine EEG recording commonly takes around 20–40 minutes, although the total visit may take longer for preparation and electrode placement. The duration varies depending on the type of EEG requested and the clinical question.

Understanding your EEG report

The EEG is interpreted together with your symptoms, medical history and neurological examination. An EEG can provide important information, but a normal routine EEG does not rule out epilepsy or exclude every seizure disorder. Your neurologist will explain the findings and advise whether further testing, such as a sleep-deprived, prolonged or video EEG, is appropriate.