What is a Nerve Conduction Velocity (NCV) test?

Nerve conduction velocity (NCV) is a test prescribed to determine how well and how fast nerves conduct electrical signals. Healthy nerves carry the signals quickly and proficiently, whereas sick or injured ones carry the signal slower and with less power. Doctors request these tests to identify the signs of nerve injury or damage along with evaluation for nerve and muscle disorders that can include symptoms such as numbness, weakness, tingling pain, etc. NCV test also enable doctors to see how the nerves working and locate where there is pressure on it and how serious it is.

However, the procedure for the test varies from individual to individual and mainly depends on the condition of the patients. It’s a procedure that doesn’t involve needles because it is completed by attaching electrodes on the body of the patient over the nerves at different areas. It helps in generating a precisely timed set of nerve impulses.

Most of the times, healthy nerves will have conduction velocity of about 50-60 m/sec, even though result can differ depending on patient and type of nerve tested. Irregular results could be an indication of the damaged or injured nerve, or it can be due to certain health condition. Your physician will discuss everything in detail before making any conclusion.

Preparing for the procedure?

It is essential for you to maintain regular body temperature prior and during the exam because low body temperature can affect the nerve conduction. On the other hand, you would not require fasting or sedation for this procedure. However, you must inform your doctor about medications that you might be taking. You also need to prevent using oil and lotions on your skin for some days before the exam. You must ask your doctors whatever questions you may have, as special preparations may require depending on your condition.

However, when scheduling a nerve conductivity test NYC, it is vital to find an authentic place. A little research on the web can help you find board certified physicians to schedule your exam.