A nerve conduction velocity test (NCV), also called a nerve conduction study (NCS), measures the speed with which an electrical impulse moves through the nerve. During the test, the nerve is stimulated, usually with electrode patches attached to the skin. A variety of blood tests may be done to determine the cause of nerve damage. These tests can detect high blood glucose levels, diabetes, vitamin deficiencies, etc.
Your doctor may order an electromyogram, or EMG, to see how well your nerves are working. Electromyography (EMG) records electrical activity in muscles to check for nerve damage. A thin needle (electrode) is inserted into the muscle to measure electrical activity as the muscle contracts. An EMG or NCS may be ordered if you have unexplained pain, tingling, numbness, or weakness in your arms or legs.
The test can confirm normal functioning or estimate the degree of nerve damage.
