Important Notice: Please note this service is currently only being offered to paediatric (children) patients. It is not available for new adult patients.
Nerve Conduction Study (NCS)
Measuring How Well Your Child’s Nerves Are Communicating
A nerve conduction study (NCS) is a diagnostic test that measures how quickly and effectively electrical signals travel along the nerves. It’s used to identify nerve damage or dysfunction that may be causing symptoms like weakness, numbness, tingling, or pain.
EMG Test (Electromyography)
Helping Understand How Nerves and Muscles Are Working
A related test that may be done is an electromyography (EMG). This measures the electrical activity in your child’s muscles. It is often done at the same time as an NCS. Both tests help find the presence, location, and extent of diseases that damage the nerves and muscles.
The tests are typically carried out for conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome, ulnar neuropathy, peripheral neuropathies and radiculopathies.
How The Tests Work
During the test, your child’s nerve is stimulated, usually with electrode patches attached to your skin. Our specialists are trained to ensure this is as comfortable as possible for your child.
The voltage of the electrical pulses used during an NCV is considered very low.
Step By Step
- Your child’s skin is cleaned, and electrode patches are stuck to the skin.
- Two electrodes are placed over the nerve, one electrode send a very mild electrical impulse while the other records it.
- Your child may be asked to contract or relax certain muscles while electrical activity is recorded.
- This is repeated for each nerve or muscle being tested.
- We take all the readings, calculate how fast nerve impulses travel, and prepare a report for the referring doctor.
Side Effects
Side effects are rare. Some children may experience a mild soreness, bruising or itching from the electrodes, however this typically goes away quickly.
Preparing Your Child For The Test
There is no special preparation required before the procedure. However we ask that you:
- Make sure your child is wearing loose, comfortable clothing that allows access to the area being tested.
- Avoid applying any lotions or oils on the day of the test.
- Let us know if your child has a pacemaker, a bleeding disorder, or if they’re taking any medication.
Safety and Comfort
EMG and NCS are safe and widely used tests. Your child may feel a brief pinch or mild discomfort when the electrodes are attached or during nerve stimulation. Normally the test provides a tingling feeling, and children tolerate it well. Our team ensures the process is explained clearly and carried out gently.
Meet Your Paediatric Neurologist
Dr Twinkle Ghia has extensive experience in paediatric neurology, and is dedicated to helping children receive an accurate diagnosis with a comfortable, low-stress visit.
With extensive training and a fellowship at Princess Margaret Hospital in Perth, you can expect a clear and thoughtful explanation each step of the way.
Dr Twinkle Ghia
Common Questions
The test takes around 30–60 minutes. You and your child will meet with our neurologist beforehand, who will explain what’s involved and answer any questions.
We recommend bringing
- Your referral letter
- Medicare card and any private health insurance details
- A list of any medications, conditions or treatments your child has
- A comfort item, like your child’s favourite toy, teddy bear or blanket
A nerve conduction study (NCS) measures how quickly electrical signals travel through the nerves. An EMG records how muscles respond to those signals.
They’re often done together to give a more complete picture of how the nerves and muscles are functioning.
Conditions We Can Assist With
- Sleep Disorders (Narcolepsy, Sleep Apnoea)
- Brain Infections (Encephalitis)
- Brain Tumours
- Head Injuries
- Dementia / Alzheimers
- Coma / Brain Death
- Neuromuscular (Myasthenia Gravis)
- Peripheral Neuropathies (e.g. caused by diabetes)
- Motor Neuron Diseas (e.g. ALS)
- Sciatica
- Musclular Dystrophy
- Inflammatory (e.g. Polymyositis)
- Carpal Tunnel
- Ulnar Nerve Impingement
- Guilliain Barre Syndrome
- CIDP (Chronic Inflammation)
- Nerve Damage / Injuries
- Spina Bifida
- Febrile Seizures
- Cerebral Palsy
Have any Questions?
To make an appointment or to discuss your results, please contact our helpful team by phone or email.