A Nerve Conduction Study (NCS) is a safe, noninvasive test that measures how well and how fast your nerves send electrical signals. It helps doctors identify nerve damage and pinpoint its source, guiding the right treatment plan for you.
NCS is commonly recommended for patients experiencing symptoms such as numbness, tingling, weakness, or unexplained pain. It is especially helpful for diagnosing conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome, peripheral neuropathy, or nerve injuries.
Small electrical impulses are applied to specific nerves to activate them.
Sensors record how quickly and strongly the nerves respond to the stimulation.
Results show if there is any nerve damage, where it is located, and how severe it may be.
Most tests are completed in less than an hour.
You may feel a mild tingling or tapping sensation during the impulses.
Physicians can often review findings right away to guide next steps in care.
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A Nerve Conduction Study (NCS) is a noninvasive outpatient test used to measure the speed of electrical signals traveling through your nerves. This exam helps identify whether nerve damage is present and determines the location of the problem. By recording the responses, physicians can gather important details about how well your nerves are functioning.
If you are experiencing problems such as numbness, tingling, or weakness, a Nerve Conduction Study may be recommended. The test measures how fast and how strong electrical signals travel through your nerves, making it possible to confirm if damage exists. This information helps your doctor identify nerve involvement as the cause of your symptoms.
A Nerve Conduction Study is generally very well tolerated. During the test, you may feel brief electrical impulses applied to your nerves. These sensations are described as small shocks, but they are not considered painful. Because the study is noninvasive, the overall risk is extremely low. Patients can complete the test safely in an outpatient setting.
During the procedure, small electrodes are placed on the skin over nerves and muscles. Mild electrical impulses are then applied to stimulate the nerves, and their responses are recorded. By looking at the speed and strength of these signals, the test shows whether there is nerve damage. The process is simple and provides important diagnostic information.
The NCS measures the speed and response of nerve signals. If these responses are slower than normal or weaker than expected, it suggests there may be nerve damage. This allows physicians to see not only if a problem exists but also where it is located. The results are used to guide further care.
Most Nerve Conduction Studies can be completed in less than an hour. The exact time depends on how many nerves are being tested, but the procedure is efficient and performed in an outpatient setting. Since it is noninvasive, patients can return home immediately after the test without needing any recovery time.
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