This test measures the electrical activity of your nerves and their interaction with your muscles. Nerves communicate with muscles to “tell them” to contract by sending electrical signals. Nerve conduction studies involve a small electrical stimulus (“shock”) to one part of a nerve with measurement of how long it takes to get to another part of the nerve or to a muscle. Your values are compared to normal values to see if there is any slowing of the conduction or if the waveform is smaller than it should be.

The EMG portion of the test consists of a small “pin electrode”, which just looks like a tiny needle. This needle is inserted into different muscles and the doctor interprets the electrical waveforms of the muscle on a screen. There are no more “shocks” occurring. The muscle is tested when it’s relaxed and then you will be asked to contract that specific muscle and the waveforms are evaluated again.

Based on how many nerves or muscles are being tested, this test generally takes between 30-45 minutes.

You can take any of your usual medications and you can eat prior to the test. If you wear lotion, we ask that you don’t put it on the arm or leg that is being tested prior to your appointment.

• Peripheral nerve entrapments (carpal or cubital tunnel; tarsal tunnel; “foot drop” – peroneal/fibular nerve injury)
• Neuropathy
• Radiculopathy (pinched nerve in the back or neck)
• Myopathy (muscle disorder with weakness)
• Guillain-Barre syndrome
• Polymyositis
• Acute or Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy

• Nerve injuries from trauma or fractures – can help determine the likelihood and prognosis for recovery

At Cape Fear Physical Medicine and Rehab, we are committed to providing precise diagnostics and effective treatments tailored to your needs. Our skilled team ensures you receive the highest standard of pain management, supporting you throughout your recovery journey. If you’re seeking expert evaluation and care for nerve-related concerns, we are here to help. Contact us today or schedule an appointment to learn more about EMG Nerve Conduction Studies and how we can assist in your healing process. We are conveniently located at 1540 Purdue Dr, Ste. 200, in Fayetteville, NC 28303. We serve patients from Fayetteville NC, Woodfield NC, Hope Mills NC, Fort Bragg NC, Eastover NC, and surrounding areas.