HealingWell
Search Close Search
☰

EMG/NCS testing

Support Forums
>
Multiple Sclerosis
✚ New Topic ✚ Reply
❬ ❬ Previous Thread |Next Thread ❭ ❭
Posted 5/13/2009 9:10 PM (GMT 0)
I saw the neuro today.  I am scheduled for an MRI next Tuesday and EMG/NCS testing next friday.  The test on Friday sounds awful.  If you had the tests, can you please describe your experience?  Thanks.
Posted 5/13/2009 10:33 PM (GMT 0)
I have not had these tests.  These are not typical for MS.  They are used more for things like carpal tunnel and neuropathy.  From my understanding, they are testing for peripheral nerve function.  MS is a central nerve disorder.  I have not heard that either of these tests are particularly painful or unpleasant.  I hope you find answers soon.

http://www.webmd.com/brain/electromyogram-emg-and-nerve-conduction-studies

Posted 5/14/2009 12:05 AM (GMT 0)
Thank you.

Posted 5/14/2009 12:17 PM (GMT 0)
momof3

I have had what they called a nerve conduction test - where they see how long it takes for pain to travel from the extremities to the brain. It was very unpleasant & the technician administering it admitted that the last person had refused to continue. I thought "smart guy" not to allow them to torture him.

The results where INCONCLUSIVE!!!! This would tie in with Gretchen's comment. If it is not relevant for MS I think the doctor just was making money.

If you do decide ti do it find out first what they are going to do and why and if it will hurt. If it hurts remember you can always get up and walk away.

Good luck
Posted 5/14/2009 4:27 PM (GMT 0)
Hi again,

I have lain awake worrying that I might have made this worse for you. I must say that I had this test done 13 years ago so it might be different or have been changed. Also my MS has been characterised by pain so my nervous system might have been hypersensitive.

I just did not want you to have my experience where I went into it not knowing anything. I asked for a MRI and the neuro said just do this one first. I see you are booked for a MRI first so why don't you do that and say you will get those results first and if nothing comes up you can then do the NCS.

The MRI is usually the best indicator and if it shows a lesion (I hope it does not) you do not need to waste your money on the other test. Also I worry that if you walk away in the middle of the test they will still charge you. Perhaps you could just say for financial reasons you will do the MRI first & then the NCS

Gretchen is right find out as much as you can.
Posted 5/14/2009 4:52 PM (GMT 0)
popsie, thanks so much for your concern.  It is my doctor who is performing the test next Friday.  She should have my MRI results by then and I will question her as to why this test is being performed.  I did get a handout that talks about the tests, but it does not mention pain.  I will also question her about this and probably make my decision then.  I have tingling 24/7 in the soles of my feet and I think she wanted to see if I have nerve damage, does that make sense?  I have still not ruled out that this is lyme related because I had Lyme from 7/06 to 3/08. But this time my symptons are different.
Posted 5/15/2009 12:12 AM (GMT 0)
Thats great that the dr is performing the test & you trust her. Obviouslyyou want to get an answer, & you seem to be well prepared.

The tingles I have had in the feet are really intense and painful. More unpleasant than conventional "pins & needles".

I know lyme is really complicated and I wish you all the best and hope you find something to give you relief.
Posted 5/15/2009 1:15 AM (GMT 0)
popsie, thanks.  The feeling I have in the soles of my feet is not like the normal pins and needles either, it is pretty intense.  Thank you for your advice and concern, it is really helpful and reassuring to talk to someone who has been through this. I appreciate it.

✚ New Topic ✚ Reply