Nerve Conduction Study

Studies that measure the ability of specific nerves to conduct electrical impulses. Conduction studies, often in conjunction with ELECTROMYOGRAPHY, are used to investigate the cause of muscle weak-ness and paralysis. An electrode is taped to the skin over the nerve that supplies an affected muscle, where it picks up electrical impulses passing along the nelve and amplifies and converts them to signals that are recorded on a graph. Nerve conduction studies are harmless and painless, and take between 30 and 60 minutes. depending on the number of nerves tested.

Why it is done?

• The nerve conduction study is one tool that a clinician can use to assess nerve function.
• Nerve conduction studies are often used to help diagnose nerve disorders, such as carpal tunnel syndrome or Guillain-Barré syndrome.
• Identify the location of abnormal sensations, such as numbness, tingling, or pain.

How to prepare for the test?

Tell your doctor if you:

• Have had bleeding problems.
• Are taking medications that thin the blood, such as warfarin or heparin.
• Normal body temperature must be maintained (low body temperature slows nerve conduction).
• Do not smoke for at least 3 hours before the test.

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