An NCV (nerve conduction velocity) test records the speed at which the nerve impulse travels a specified distance in relation to the diameter of the nerve and degree of myelination (insulation) on the axon of the nerve. NCV tests show the condition of the best nerve fibers. Damaged nerves – neuropathy – may not be shown in the test.
An EMG test looks for electrical activity in the muscle during contraction. EMG tests may help differentiate between nerve damage or dysfunction and neurological disorders.
Both of these tests will confirm what is already known: the nerves are not working properly, nerves feel things they shouldn’t and don’t feel what they should. This test may also indicate that nerves and muscles are not communicating properly with each other.