Neurodiagnostics

Electromyogram (EMG)/Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS)

These procedures check if your muscles and nerves are working properly. They assess symptoms such as numbness, tingling and weakness.

• EMG uses a needle to evaluate and record your muscles' electrical activity
• NCS evaluate how your nerves function

What should I expect?

A technologist will place electrodes on your skin and electrical impulses will be sent from the electrodes to your muscles. You will feel little to no discomfort.

A neurologist will insert a small needle into one of your muscles. A small wire will record any changes in electrical activity when you are moving and at rest. You may feel some discomfort during this procedure.

How should I prepare?

Please do not apply cream, oil or hand sanitizer on the skin or area being tested.

How long will this take?

An EMG will take up to 90 minutes and a NCS usually takes 30-90 minutes.

Electroencephalography (EEG)

An EEG is a test that tracks and records brain wave patterns. It is used to find problems with the brain's electrical activity. Most EEGs are done to diagnose and monitor seizure disorders. An EEG can also evaluate other problems, such as:

• sleep disorders
• changes in behaviour
• brain activity after a severe head injury

What should I expect?

You will be asked to lay on a bed or sit in a chair. The EEG technologist will attach electrodes to your scalp using adhesive paste. Each electrode is connected to equipment that records brain waves.

You will be asked to lie still, look at a bright flashing light and breathe as instructed.

How should I prepare?

• Your hair should be clean and free of oils, sprays and conditioner. This will help the electrodes stick to your scalp.
• Do not have caffeine before the test.
• If you must sleep during the EEG, please follow the instructions provided with your appointment information.

How long will this take?

Your EEG will take about 60 minutes.

Evoked Potentials (EP)

This test measures your brain's electrical activity when specific nerve pathways are stimulated. Its purpose is to detect damage along these pathways.

What should I expect?

Electrodes will be placed on your scalp and skin. You will feel little to no discomfort.

How should I prepare?

Please do not apply cream, oil or hand sanitizer on the skin or area being tested (including wrists and ankles). Your hair should be clean and free of oils, sprays and conditioner.

How long will this take?

This test will take 30-90 minutes.