Specialized Outpatient Programs
Electrodiagnostics
Electrodiagnostic studies consist of two main procedures, the needle electromyographic examination (EMG) and the nerve conduction studies (NCS). Utilizing these two examinations, a physician can evaluate muscles and nerves for weakness, numbness, and pain and symptoms such as fatigue, cramps and abnormal sensations. Electrodiagnostics may also include evoked potentials, which evaluate whether the sensory impulses are conducting normally through the nerves, spinal cord or brain.
Davies Campus
Castro & Duboce
San Francisco, CA 94114
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Electromyographic examination (EMG)
During an EMG, the physician analyzes the electric activity in muscles by inserting a fine disposable needle electrode into selected muscles. No shocks are given or produced by the disposable needle electrode. The physician can determine whether the muscle is working normally by seeing the electric activity on a screen and listening over a loudspeaker.
Back to topNerve conduction studies (NCS)
To perform an NCS study, the physician tapes small metal electrodes on the skin and applies a brief electric stimulus to one portion of a nerve. Nerve stimulation will cause a tingling sensation. Your physician can then evaluate the electric response of the nerve or muscle to which the nerve is attached and determine if the nerve impulse conducted normally, is responding slowly or not transmitting at all.
Back to topEvoked potentials
Evoked potentials are studies utilizing different stimuli, such as auditory clicks, changing visual patterns or small electric stimuli applied to specific nerves. The recordings are made over the surface of the head and the spine to evaluate whether the sensory impulses are conducting normally through the nerves, spinal cord or brain.
You will need a referral from your primary care provider or specialist. In order to avoid unexpected medical expenses, it is always best for your to contact your insurance company prior to treatment to confirm coverage.