A nerve conduction study (NCS) measures the speed of electrical activity passing through your nerves. By attaching electrode patches to the skin on specific parts of your body, a doctor can stimulate and measure the electrical impulses of your nerves. An NCS can help determine whether you have a nerve or muscle condition.
UPMC experts use the most advanced techniques and technology to diagnose muscle and nerve conditions accurately — so you can receive comprehensive, multidisciplinary care that reduces symptoms and restores your quality of life.
A nerve conduction study (NCS) measures the speed of electrical activity through your nerves. By attaching electrode patches to your skin on specific parts of your body, a doctor can stimulate and measure the electrical impulses of your nerves. An NCS can help determine whether you have a nerve or muscle condition.
An NCS can be used to learn about the electrical activity in your muscles and diagnose or rule out a nerve or muscle condition.
When your nerves and muscles are working properly, the nerves send — and muscles respond to — electrical impulses that tell them to function in a certain way. If your nerves or muscles are not working properly, it may be a sign the electrical signals are not being sent or received accurately.
NCS can diagnose a variety of nerve and muscle diseases, including:
You may need an NCS if you have symptoms of muscle or nerve condition or poor nerve conduction. Symptoms may include numbness, weakness, or tingling.
You may be a candidate for an NCS if you have symptoms of a muscle or nerve condition, such as numbness, weakness, or tingling. Your doctor may order an NCS to diagnose or rule out certain conditions.
Your doctor may order an NCS in addition to or instead of an electromyography study. In some cases, these tests may be performed during the same appointment.
Nerve conduction studies are safe and complications are rare. However, some people may experience minor discomfort or mild bruising from the electrical pulses delivered by the electrodes.
Before your procedure, you will meet with your care team and have a physical exam. Your care team may order tests, such as:
Your doctor will explain the procedure to you and answer your questions.
To prepare for the procedure, you should:
On the day of your procedure, bring your photo ID and health insurance card(s). Leave valuables such as cash and jewelry at home.
An NCS is an outpatient test, so you will be discharged the same day. Although not required, you may want to arrange for someone to drive you home after you are discharged.
An NCS can take 15 minutes to an hour or more, depending on the number of nerves that need to be tested. The exam for each nerve only takes a few minutes.
When you arrive at the hospital, you will meet with your care team for final preparations.
You will be awake for the test and asked to sit or lie down.
Your doctor will:
After your procedure, your doctor will make sure your condition is stable and you are feeling well.
It is normal to feel some tingling or discomfort from the electrical pulses, but you should not feel any pain.
After completing your test, you will be monitored for a few minutes. You may feel some minor discomfort where your nerves were tested.
Your doctor will let you know when it is safe to go home. Although not required, you may want to arrange for someone to drive you home from the hospital after you are discharged.
You should be able to return to your normal activities, diet, and medication schedule immediately unless your doctor tells you otherwise.
Before you go home, your doctor will tell you:
You should let your doctor know if you have:
UPMC experts use the least invasive, most effective approach to diagnose and treat all muscle and nerve disorders. From diagnosis through treatment and recovery, our team uses advanced devices and techniques — promoting safer procedures, improved outcomes, and enhanced quality of life.
By UPMC Editorial Staff. Last reviewed on 2025-06-26.
