We look forward to seeing you for your nerve/muscle test at Sweetwater Pain & Spine! There will be two parts to the test: Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS) and Electromyography (EMG). These diagnostic tests are used to evaluate the health of your muscles and the nerve that control them.
Here is some important information to help you prepare for your upcoming appointment:
What to Expect:
- Purpose: NCS and EMG help diagnose conditions affecting muscle and nerve function by measuring electrical activity in your muscles and nerves.
- NCS Procedure: Nerve Conduction Studies involve placing electrodes on your skin to measure the speed and strength of signals traveling through your nerves.
- EMG Procedure: During an EMG, a small, thin needle is inserted into specific muscles to record electrical activity. You might feel slight discomfort with the needle insertion, similar to acupuncture or an injection.
How to Prepare:
- Clothing: Wear loose-fitting, comfortable clothing. If we are testing your legs, then please wear shorts if possible.
- Skin Care: On the day of the test, avoid using lotions, creams, or oils on your skin.
- Diet: You can eat and drink normally before the test.

During the Test:
- The combined procedures typically take 30 minutes.
- For NCS, you will feel mild to moderate electrical pulses during nerve stimulation.
- You will be asked to relax and contract your muscles at various intervals during the EMG.
- Your doctor will explain each step and attempt to make the process as comfortable as possible.
After the Test:
- You might experience slight muscle soreness or bruising at the needle sites from the EMG, which should resolve quickly.
- You can resume your normal activities immediately.
If you have any questions or concerns about your NCS and EMG tests, please contact our office. We are here to ensure you feel informed and prepared for your appointment.