What is nerve conduction velocity?

As a rule, the nerve conduction velocity test results do not follow a single standard norm. Factors such as a patient’s age, sex, profession, health, and medical history along with the affected body part become important markers. A nerve conduction velocity of 50 - 60 meters per second is considered normal, but this range differs from laboratory to laboratory.

An NCV test can diagnose several conditions related to the nervous system. These range from herniated discs to Guillain-Barré syndrome, carpal tunnel syndrome, peripheral nerve problems in the arm or legs, nerve damage, pinched nerves, sciatic nerve problems, or inherited neurological conditions. Sometimes, doctors also recommend this test when a patient is recovering from a nerve injury.

Conducted by a healthcare professional, this test involves a patient removing any jewelry, eyeglasses, or metal objects. The patient changes into a hospital gown and lies down.

• A technician places two or more adhesive patches on the skin, one that records and the other that stimulates electrodes
• A brief mild electrical signal passes  
• The technician measures the speed of the nerve signals

Nerve damage, also known as peripheral neuropathy, affects numerous body parts after an injury or due to an underlying condition. Symptoms can include a tingling sensation in the hands or feet, numbness in the hands or feet, sharp or sudden pain in the feet or back, dropping objects regularly, a buzzing sensation throughout the body.

Only a healthcare professional should interpret the results of the nerve conduction velocity (NCV) test. Globally, the normal range is between 50 to 60 meters per second but differs in infants. A doctor would consider factors such as the patient’s age, sex, medical history, the body part that is being tested, and where they live.

A nerve conduction velocity (NCV) test is usually accurate, but must be done only under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Results may be false or altered in the following conditions:

• if the body temperature of the patient is too high or low
• if the patient hasn't communicated the presence of a defibrillator or pacemaker

When patients undergo an NCV procedure, they feel like a small brief electrical shock has passed through their bodies. It might cause slight discomfort (depending on the strength of the pulse), but this sensation will disappear once the test is complete. The voltage in this test is very low with minimal risks. In case of any concerns, it is advisable to speak with a doctor.

Often conducted in conjunction, electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction velocity test (NCV) are two different procedures. While NCV test results indicate nerve damage of some kind, EMG test results convey how well muscles respond to electric signals sent to the nerves. When a patient experiences symptoms ranging from tingling, pain, numbness, to muscle weakness, doctors recommend these tests.

A patient experiences a brief electrical shock while undergoing the nerve conduction velocity test. It is not painful but causes some discomfort. Most patients feel fine after the test. Patients with implantations, pacemakers, or cardiac defibrillators need to inform the technician in advance. For any concerns, patients must seek the advice of a healthcare professional.

For any questions regarding the nerve conduction velocity test, connect with our team of experts. Book an appointment with us today at Yashoda Hospitals.