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Work injury patients may show symptoms such as tingling or numbness in some instances. These symptoms may indicate a need for more specific testing to assess the muscles and nerves.
At Spine and Joint Institute of Milwaukee, we use Nerve Conduction Velocity (NCV) studies to assess how the body sends electrical signals down the nerves. Additionally, we utilize electromyography (EMG) to examine the electrical signs your muscles use at rest and in use.
A nerve conduction velocity (NCV) test is a diagnostic procedure used to assess the function of nerves in the body. During the test, electrodes are placed on the skin over the studied nerve. A small electric pulse is then applied to the nerve, and the speed at which the electrical impulse travels along the nerve is measured.
Doctors can determine the nerve conduction speed by measuring the time it takes for the electrical impulse to travel between two points on the nerve. This information helps evaluate the integrity and function of the nerve and diagnose conditions such as nerve damage, neuropathy, carpal tunnel syndrome, and other nerve-related disorders. The test is typically performed by neurologists or trained technicians in a clinical setting.
Electromyography (EMG) is a diagnostic procedure used to assess the electrical activity of muscles and the nerves controlling them. During an EMG test, small needles called electrodes are inserted into the muscle being studied. These electrodes detect the electrical signals produced by the muscle when it contracts.
By analyzing these electrical signals, doctors can evaluate the health and function of the muscles and nerves. EMG is often performed simultaneously with a nerve conduction velocity (NCV) test to assess nerve and muscle function.
EMG is commonly used to diagnose conditions such as muscle, nerve, peripheral neuropathy, radiculopathy, and other neuromuscular disorders. It is typically performed by neurologists or trained technicians in a clinical setting.
During the NCV portion of the test, electrodes will be placed on your skin over the nerves being studied, and you'll feel a brief electrical pulse or shock. While this sensation may cause a tingling feeling or slight discomfort, it's generally tolerable for most patients.
In the EMG portion, small needles called electrodes will be inserted into the examined muscles, which may cause temporary discomfort or pain similar to a pinprick. However, this discomfort is usually brief and manageable. Throughout the test, you may be asked to contract and relax specific muscles to assess their function.
To prepare for the testing, you must inform your healthcare provider about any medical conditions, medications, and allergies. Wear loose, comfortable clothing that allows access to the areas being tested, and avoid using lotions, oils, or creams on your skin on the day of the test, as they can interfere with electrode placement. Arrive for your appointment on time and follow any specific instructions your healthcare provider provides.
After the test, you can typically resume your normal activities immediately. Contact your healthcare provider if you experience unusual pain, swelling, or bleeding at the electrode sites after the test. While NCV and EMG testing may cause some discomfort, they are generally safe and well-tolerated procedures that provide valuable information to help diagnose nerve and muscle disorders. If you have any concerns or questions about the tests, don't hesitate to discuss them with a work injury doctor at Spine and Joint Institute of Milwaukee.
I want to say thanks to them. Because of them, today I can work. Due to the injury I had, my shoulder, elbow, and hand were hurting. Thanks to the doctors and specialists at Spine and Joint, my rehabilitation was fast. Thank You from the bottom of my heart, lots of blessings.
I started at Spine and Joint Institute with lots of pain in my shoulder and I couldn’t even move it. With the help of surgery and a lot of therapy everything improved remarkably. Now I can move my arm thanks to the therapies and the kind treatment of all the people that work here. I really do recommend Spine and Joint Institute.
Today June ll I finished my treatment and I want to thank Spine and Joint because thanks to them I return to my normal routines without pain. Thanks to all the staff who were very attentive and kind in every therapy I had and helped me heal quickly.
I want to thank the Spine and Joint institute for the good service they gave me since with their help my shoulder and wrist improved a lot.
Thanks to the Spine and Joint Institute and Dr. Kelly my shoulders were very good. After the surgery they did a great job with me. Thanks also to Priscila and the entire team, I’m very well.
Have you been injured at work? The medical professionals at Spine and Joint Institute of Milwaukee are ready to help. Contact us today to take the first step towards relief, recovery, and a successful return to work.
If you or a loved one has experienced a work injury on the job, contact Spine and Joint Institute of Milwaukee right away. Our team is here to provide the support and care you need to navigate the challenges of head injury recovery while documenting your treatment properly for your workers’ compensation claim. We work closely with our injury patients and help ensure a swift recovery, a stress-free workers' compensation claims process, and a safe return to work.
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