Reviewed by Dr Samta Parteki MD & Dr Saloni Jain MD, Consultant Radiologists | Adhiraj Imaging, Dilshad Garden
What is NCV and EMG?
NCV (Nerve Conduction Velocity Study) measures how fast electrical signals travel through your peripheral nerves. Small electrical impulses are applied to the skin surface over the nerve, and the speed and strength of the signal are measured. Slowed or absent signals indicate nerve damage or disease.
EMG (Electromyography) assesses the electrical activity of muscles at rest and during contraction. A very thin needle electrode is inserted into the muscle to record its electrical signals. EMG identifies whether weakness or wasting is due to nerve or muscle disease.
NCV and EMG are often performed together in the same session as complementary tests that together give a complete picture of the neuromuscular system.
Please note: EMG involves very thin needle insertion into specific muscles — it is mildly uncomfortable but not very painful. Most patients tolerate it well. Do NOT apply any cream or lotion to the skin on the day of the test.
When is NCV / EMG Recommended?
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome — numbness and tingling in hands, confirmed by median nerve NCV
Brachial / Lumbosacral Plexopathy — post-trauma or diabetic plexopathy
How to Prepare for NCV / EMG
Skin care: Do NOT apply lotion, cream, oil or hand cream to the arms or legs on the day of the test. Clean, dry skin is essential
Clothing: Wear loose, comfortable clothing. The test requires access to arms and legs
Temperature: Warm hands and feet give better results. If you have cold hands/feet, warm them up before coming
Medications: Continue all regular medications. Inform the technician if you are on blood thinners
Pacemaker: Inform the neurophysiologist if you have a pacemaker
NCV / EMG Test Procedure
1
Registration & History
Show your doctor's referral at reception. The neurophysiologist will review your symptoms, previous reports and plan which nerves/muscles to test.
2
NCV Test (20–30 min)
Small surface electrodes are placed on the skin. A gentle electrical stimulus is applied and the response is measured at a distant point along the nerve. You feel a brief, mild tingling sensation. Multiple nerves are tested on both sides.
3
EMG Test (20–30 min, if ordered)
A very thin, sterile needle electrode is inserted into selected muscles. You are asked to relax and then contract the muscle. The electrical activity is recorded and heard through a speaker. Each muscle takes only 1–2 minutes.
4
Report Writing
The neurophysiologist reviews all traces and writes a detailed interpretation. Report includes waveforms, nerve conduction values and clinical correlation.
5
Report Delivery
Same-day reports in 2–4 hours. Sent digitally via WhatsApp and email. Physical printed copy also available.
Frequently Asked Questions — NCV / EMG Test Delhi
Is EMG test painful?
The NCV part (surface electrodes) causes only mild tingling. The EMG needle insertion causes mild discomfort — similar to a blood test prick — in the muscle. Most patients find it tolerable. The needles used are extremely thin.
How long does NCV EMG test take?
NCV alone takes 30–45 minutes. Combined NCV + EMG takes 60–90 minutes depending on how many nerves and muscles are tested.
What is the cost of NCV test in Delhi?
NCV test starts from ₹1,200 at Adhiraj Imaging. EMG starts from ₹1,500. Combined NCV + EMG from ₹2,500. Call for exact pricing based on your specific requirements.
What does the NCV test report tell me?
The report shows nerve conduction velocities, amplitudes and latencies for each tested nerve. Abnormal results suggest nerve damage (neuropathy), nerve compression, or demyelination. The report includes a clinical interpretation.
Can I eat before NCV/EMG?
Yes, you can eat and drink normally before the test. No fasting is required.
How accurate is NCV test for carpal tunnel?
NCV is the gold standard for carpal tunnel syndrome diagnosis with sensitivity of 85–90%. It objectively measures median nerve slowing at the wrist, confirming the diagnosis and helping assess severity for surgical planning.