Nerve Conduction Velocity Test
The Nerve Conduction Velocity (NCV) test is a non-invasive neurological exam that measures the nerve conduction speed of the motor and sensory portions of the peripheral nervous system. The study shows, by testing the motor, sensory, F-Wave, & H-Reflex aspects of the nerves, how well the body’s electrical signals are traveling through the nerves. The exam is done by attaching electrodes to the extremities and sending mild electrical impulses through the nerves using a stimulator, and recording the speed at which the impulses travel. As a result of the impulses, the muscles of the extremity may twitch and cause a quick tingling feeling. The NCV test takes approximately 30 minutes.
Peripheral nerve abnormalities can be caused by many different factors such as Diabetes, injury, surgery, age, radiation/chemotherapy and other factors. Some of the indications, symptoms, and diseases associated with nerve damage are:
- Diabetic Neuropathy
- Numbness / Tingling
- Disturbance of skin sensation
- Entrapment neuropathies
- Muscle weakness
- Motor/Sensory deficits
- Radiculopathies
- Neuritis
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
- Hot/cold sensations
- Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
- Swelling and cramps