EMG vs. Nerve Conduction Studies: Understanding the Differences

Leading Arizona Doctor Wants to Control Your Chronic Pain

Dr. Estelle Farrell, a highly regarded double-board-certified Pain Management and Osteopathic Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Specialist, is proud to call Arizona home. With two office practices, the Valley of The Sun Institute for Pain Management in Scottsdale, AZ, and Sedona, AZ, she is dedicated to providing the best care for her patients through EMG and NCV testing, determining diagnosis and treatment plans.

She sees patients daily for uncontrolled pain management of various underlying conditions. Pain is never a normal occurrence or due to the aging process, but alarms you of an underlying condition. 

What Is EMG and NCV Testing?

Valley of The Sun Institute for Pain Management in Scottsdale, AZ, explains that the neurology EMG or Electromyography and the NCV or Nerve Conduction Velocity tests are crucial in evaluating nerve and muscle functioning. These tests provide the necessary information to develop an effective treatment plan. 

EMG

This test measures the electrical action and activity of a muscle. Our doctor inserts a fine needle/electrode into the muscle being tested. The electrode records electrical signals when the muscle is at rest and contracting. 

This test can differentiate between nerve and muscle issues as it detects abnormal electrical activity in muscles. You may have a possible nerve or muscle disorder.

Possible Underlying diagnoses 

• Radiculopathy
• Spinal disease
• Muscle disease
• Other forms of nerve or muscle disease

NCV (Nerve Conduction Velocity Test)

This test measures and records electrical impulses that travel along your nerve's pathway. Our doctor attaches two electrodes on the top of your skin over the affected nerve. While one electrode receives and records a small electrical impulse, the other electrode responds to the other. 

This test is valuable in uncovering damage or dysfunction of the nerve, like peripheral nerve functioning for, 

• Entrapment
• Nerve injury
• Chronic disease

These tests provide comprehensive information guiding Dr. Farrell's decision-making process, ensuring the correct diagnosis and an individualized treatment plan. Our doctor closely monitors your condition to ensure the best possible outcome.  

Our experienced doctor, who is highly trained in EMG and NCV testing, personally administers and interprets these tests. This ensures that you receive the most accurate and comprehensive diagnosis possible. 

Pain Management in Arizona

Please call Dr. Ferrell at our two pain management practices, Valley of The Sun Institute for Pain Management in Scottsdale, AZ, at (408) 955-1515 or the Sedona, AZ, office at (928) 327-1212 to schedule your pain management appointment. 

Our doctor's goal for you is a higher quality of life by helping you realize improved overall function, health, wellness, and quality of life.  

Remember, pain is never normal at any age. Pain signifies an underlying condition. Treating the underlying condition means a higher success rate in eliminating chronic pain.