Diagnostic Nerve Conduction Study and EMG Testing

Important: Nerve conduction studies and EMG testing are available by referral only. Patients must first be evaluated by an EmergeOrtho-Foothills provider before testing can be scheduled.

Numbness, tingling, burning pain, muscle weakness, or persistent hand and arm symptoms can make everyday movement frustrating. In some cases, your orthopedic provider may recommend a nerve conduction study (NCS) and electromyography (EMG) testing to better understand how your nerves and muscles are functioning and the source of nerve-related symptoms. At EmergeOrtho-Foothills Region, this specialty diagnostic service is offered in partnership with EMG Solutions.

This is not a walk-in or direct-access service. Patients must first schedule an evaluation with an EmergeOrtho provider. If testing is medically appropriate, your orthopedic specialist will place a referral for EMG and nerve testing with EMG Solutions.

How the Referral Process Works

1. Schedule an appointment with an EmergeOrtho provider.
2. Complete your orthopedic evaluation.
3. If appropriate, your provider refers you for EMG/NCS testing.
4. Testing is performed through EMG Solutions at an EmergeOrtho clinic.
5. Results are reviewed with your EmergeOrtho provider.

What Is a Nerve Conduction Study?

A nerve conduction test measures how well electrical signals travel through a nerve. During testing, small electrodes are placed on the skin, and mild electrical impulses are delivered to evaluate how quickly and effectively the nerve responds. This testing is commonly paired with electromyography, also called EMG. While the nerve portion evaluates signal transmission, the EMG portion evaluates how muscles respond to nerve activity.

Together, these studies help physicians better understand communication between nerves and muscles. They can help determine whether symptoms are related to:

• A compressed nerve
• Nerve irritation or damage
• A spinal nerve root problem
• Muscle dysfunction
• Peripheral nerve conditions

Many patients hear these studies referred to as an EMG nerve conduction study, EMG/NCS testing, or simply “EMG testing.”

These studies do more than confirm a diagnosis. They can also help:

• Measure the severity of nerve involvement
• Differentiate between nerve and muscle conditions
• Guide rehabilitation strategies
• Determine whether surgery may be appropriate
• Monitor healing or recovery over time

Results from a nerve conduction study may help your EmergeOrtho provider create a more precise treatment plan tailored to your symptoms and functional goals.

Symptoms That May Lead to Testing

Orthopedic specialists may order a nerve conduction test to evaluate how well the peripheral nerves are functioning and to help identify the source of pain, weakness, numbness, or muscle dysfunction. Nerve conduction testing is not performed to treat symptoms. Instead, it helps identify the source of symptoms so your provider can recommend the most appropriate treatment plan.

The test is commonly recommended when patients experience symptoms such as:

• Hand numbness or tingling
• Burning pain in the arms or legs
• Muscle weakness
• Neck or back pain with radiating symptoms
• Suspected pinched nerves
• Carpal tunnel symptoms
• Muscle cramping
• Persistent nerve-related discomfort after injury

Conditions Nerve Conduction Tests May Diagnose

EMG nerve conduction studies are commonly used to evaluate a wide range of orthopedic and neurologic conditions affecting the arms, hands, legs, feet, neck, and spine.

Common conditions that may be evaluated include:

• Nerve Compression Syndromes: Conditions caused by compressed or irritated nerves, including carpal tunnel, cubital tunnel, and tarsal tunnel
• Peripheral Neuropathy: Nerve damage is often linked to diabetes, vitamin deficiencies, or autoimmune conditions.
• Radiculopathy: A pinched nerve in the neck or lower back that causes pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arms or legs.
• Traumatic Nerve Injuries: Nerve damage related to trauma, surgery, or orthopedic procedures.
• Neuromuscular Disorders and Myopathies: Conditions affecting muscle function or nerve-to-muscle communication.

What To Expect During Testing

Watch “EMG Solutions – Patient Information” and learn everything you need to know to be prepared for your EMG or NCS testing.

For many patients, uncertainty about the test is the most stressful part. EMG and nerve testing are commonly performed procedures, and most patients tolerate them well.

NCS: Why You Need a Referral

EMG and nerve testing through EmergeOrtho is available by provider referral only. Patients must first meet with an EmergeOrtho orthopedic specialist for evaluation. During your appointment, your provider will review your symptoms, medical history, physical exam findings, and imaging, if needed.

If nerve testing may help clarify the diagnosis or guide treatment, your provider will coordinate a referral through EMG Solutions. Patients undergo the testing at an EmergeOrtho location. The EMG Solutions team comes to you. This referral-based process helps ensure testing is medically appropriate and connected directly to your overall orthopedic care plan.

Schedule an Appointment

If you are experiencing numbness, tingling, weakness, burning pain, or other nerve-related symptoms, the first step is scheduling an evaluation with an EmergeOrtho-Foothills Region provider. Your orthopedic specialist will determine whether EMG or additional testing may be appropriate.

To begin the referral process, make an appointment with an EmergeOrtho-Foothills orthopedic specialist. Your provider will determine whether EMG or nerve conduction testing is appropriate for your condition.