Neurosciences - Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS)

Introduction

Nerve conduction studies (NCS) is a test used to check how well the nerves are working in your arms and/or legs.

Why do NCS?

NCS when combined with a history, examination and scan results may help to diagnose a wide range of neurological conditions.
Your doctor will be able to explain why it is important for you to have this test.

How is NCS performed?

The nerves in your arms and/or legs are stimulated with a mild electrical pulse using small pads and wires. You will feel a tingling sensation in the limb and your muscles will twitch. Most people tolerate the procedure without any problem.

What are the side effects and risks?

There are no side effects or risks from having NCS. A few people experience temporary tingling in the areas tested for a couple of hours after the test.

What happens if I decide to have NCS?

You will have the opportunity to ask the doctors or technicians questions about the information in this leaflet before you decide whether or not to have NCS.

There will be no need to sign a formal consent form. As soon as you agree to the test we can begin. The entire procedure usually takes 20-60mins.
 
Please have a bath or shower the night before your test.

Wear short sleeves and loose-fitting clothes to allow easy access to your arms and/or legs. You may need to undress down to your underwear. Blankets and gowns are provided.

On the day of the test please avoid using any type of skin cream including tanning and sun cream. Please remove any rings, watches or bracelets prior to attending the department. If removing a ring is difficult then don’t worry, just remove as many as possible.  Continue taking medication as normal, unless you have been instructed otherwise by your doctor

If you have a pacemaker/ICD (implanted cardiac defibrillator fitted, please telephone the department on receiving this information leaflet.

What happens if I decide not to have NCS?

Your referring consultant will need to discuss the likely consequences of this decision. For example, he/she may find it more difficult to diagnose and/or treat your condition.

Is there anything else I should know?

• Please arrive in good time for your appointment. If you think you will be late please ring us as soon as possible. It may be necessary to re-book another appointment for you
• Parking can be difficult - please allow for this, it can take up to 40 minutes to park depending upon how busy the hospital is. Please park on the East Car Park on Stott Lane which is closest (5–10-minute walk) to our department. There is a charge for parking, which can be paid for by cash or card. Parking information and site map are available online at: www.northerncarealliance.nhs.uk
• You may eat and drink normally before your test
• Please note there are no facilities for childcare while you are having your test
• If you require an ambulance transport you should contact your own GP to make the arrangements. Please let us know if you will be coming by ambulance transport
• You may be invited back to have further tests if the consultant in our department or your referring doctor/consultant thinks that a repeat test or a different test may be helpful
• In this case you may receive an appointment for another test before seeing your referring doctor/consultant for the results of your first test. The main reason for this is to save time and inconvenience for you

Contact details

Telephone - 0161 206 2068
Email: reftoneurophys@nca.nhs.uk

Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, Greater Manchester Neurosciences Centre, Salford Royal Hospital, Stott Lane, Salford, M6 8HD.

Please telephone the department as soon as possible if you need to change or cancel your appointment. This ensures that waiting lists are kept to a minimum for everybody.