Nerve Conduction Study & Electromyography in Sydney
At our Drummoyne neurology clinic, we provide comprehensive Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS) and Electromyography (EMG) to diagnose and manage neurological disorders. Our expert neurologists specialise in pinpointing the causes of nerve and muscle issues affecting patients throughout Sydney and New South Wales.
What are Nerve Conduction Studies and Electromyography?
These diagnostic tests measure the electrical activity in your muscles and nerves to identify disorders within these systems. While they can be performed separately, they are often conducted together for a comprehensive assessment.
Nerve Conduction Study (NCS)
A Nerve Conduction Study measures how quickly and efficiently electrical signals travel through your nerves. This test evaluates your nerve conduction velocity and nerve signal strength, providing valuable insights into nerve function and potential issues.
Electromyography (EMG)
Electromyography tests the electrical activity in your muscles, both when they're active and at rest. This helps identify muscle dysfunction and its potential causes.
A nerve study may be necessary if you're experiencing numbness, tingling, or pain in your limbs, hands, feet, or face.
Why Are These Tests Conducted?
Our neurologists may recommend these tests if you're experiencing symptoms that could indicate a nerve or muscle disorder, including:
- Muscle twitching, weakness, pain or cramps
- Numbness or tingling in your lower limbs, feet, upper limbs, hands or face
- Paralysis or palsy affecting specific parts of your body
These diagnostic procedures help measure nerve function and potentially identify the cause of your symptoms.
How to Prepare for Nerve Studies
After your initial consultation at our Drummoyne clinic, you'll be booked for your procedure and provided with specific preparation instructions.
For both tests, we recommend:
- Wearing loose, comfortable clothing on the day
- Avoiding the use of creams or skin lotions for a few days before the tests
- Informing our team if you're taking blood thinners such as warfarin
What to Expect During the Procedure
Our friendly staff at our Sydney clinic will check you in and ensure you're prepared for your procedure. If both tests are requested, the nerve conduction study is typically completed first.
Nerve Conduction Study (NCS) Procedure
The nerve conduction study is non-invasive and safe:
- You'll lie down on a bed or chair
- Stimulating and recording electrodes will be attached to your skin over the area being tested
- You'll need to remain as still as possible during the test for optimal recordings
- The time taken for electrical impulses to travel between electrodes is used to calculate conduction velocity
While not painful, some patients may experience mild discomfort or tingling sensations from the electrical impulses. You have complete control and can request to stop the testing at any time.
Electromyography (EMG) Procedure
Electromyography is more invasive than nerve conduction studies:
- A small needle (similar in size to acupuncture needles) is inserted into the muscle tissue
- The needle electrode functions like an antenna, monitoring electrical activity produced by the muscle
- Our neurologist will ask you to move into specific positions to record electrical stimulation during muscle activity and at rest
This diagnostic procedure may cause some minor discomfort and slight pain at the needle insertion sites.
What to Expect After Nerve Studies
Generally, you can return to your regular activities the same day following your tests at our Drummoyne clinic. You may experience some minor bruising at the needle insertion sites, which typically fades within a few days.
Understanding Your Results
Once your test results have been thoroughly analysed, you'll have a follow-up appointment at our Sydney clinic to discuss the findings and their implications. Your referring doctor will discuss your diagnosis and develop a personalised treatment plan based on your symptoms, medical history, and test results.
What Nerve Disorders Can Be Detected?
These tests can help diagnose various conditions, including:
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
- Herniated disc causing compression of spinal nerve roots
- Chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy (CIDP)
- Guillain-Barre Syndrome
- Myasthenia Gravis
- Muscular Dystrophy
- Charcot-Marie-Tooth Disease
- Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)
Pricing for Nerve Studies
The consultation cost varies depending on the specific service, appointment duration, Medicare eligibility, and other factors. We offer payment plans for eligible patients.
Why Choose Our Drummoyne Clinic for Nerve Studies?
Our neurology team in Drummoyne, Sydney specialises in diagnosing and treating nerve damage and muscle disorders. We provide patient-centred care with a focus on ensuring the best health outcomes.
Our experienced interventional neurologists in Sydney provide comprehensive care and can facilitate further outpatient or inpatient care at affiliated hospitals if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Medicare cover nerve conduction studies?
Medicare may provide rebates for eligible patients with a valid referral. Our team can provide more specific information regarding your coverage during your consultation.
Are EMG and NCS painful?
NCS may cause mild discomfort but is not typically painful. EMG can cause some discomfort at the needle insertion sites, similar to acupuncture.
Are there any risks to having these procedures?
These procedures are generally very safe. There may be minor bruising at EMG needle insertion sites, but serious complications are rare.
How long do nerve conduction studies take?
The combined NCS and EMG testing typically takes 30-60 minutes, depending on the complexity and areas being tested.