EMG/NCS Testing

Hello

My name is David Boyce PT, EdD, OCS ECS. I am board certified electromyographer and I have been performing EMG/NCS studies for over 20 years. I pride myself in high quality/comprehensive EMG/NCS studies. In addition, I take great care to make an often-uncomfortable procedure a very positive experience for my patients.

Dr. David Boyce, EdD, PT, ECS, OCSDr. David Boyce, EdD, PT, ECS, OCS

David Boyce PT, EdD, OCS, ECS David is an assistant professor of Physical Therapy at Bellarmine University and owner of Physical Therapy Plus in Louisville, Kentucky. David has advanced training in clinical electromyography and orthopedic manipulative physical therapy and sports rehabilitation. He is dual board certified in Electromyography and Orthopedics. David has authored numerous research articles and is the author of the book titled "Orthopedic Physical Therapy Secrets". David can be contacted at dboyce@ptpluslouisville.com.

How to Make an EMG/NCS Appointment

  1. Call 454-5544 (Physical Therapy Plus)
  2. Ask to Speak to Nicki Hartledge (Nicki is my EMG scheduler, if she is not in the office, any of my front office staff can schedule a patient).
  3. She will obtain your name, phone number, and EMG request (i.e., rule out radiculopathy, etc.)
  4. She will schedule you within 24 hours of referral if you desire.
  5. Immediately after the EMG/NCS study is completed, I will fax the study back to your physician or office. If you desire,I can send a copy of the EMG/NCS study to the patient's physician.
  6. I will bring to your office an information brochure to give to your patients, explaining what an EMG/NCS test is and informing the patient what to do to prepare for the test.

10 Questions people ask about an EMG/NCS study

Click the questions below to read the answers.

What is an EMG/NCS test?

Simply put, it is a test that evaluates the status of your nerves and muscles. A doctor will order this test for patients that complain of pain, weakness, numbness, or tingling in arms, legs, head, neck or spine.

What are some common medical conditions that a physician would order an EMG/NCS to evaluate?

Some of the most common are: Carpal Tunnel, Tarsal Tunnel, Low back and neck pain, Diabetic or Thyroid conditions, or Muscular Dystrophy to name a few.

How is the test performed?

During the nerve conduction (NCS) portion of the exam electrodes are placed on different nerve or muscles sites of the limbs (hands, feet, arms). A small electrical stimulus is then applied to the skin that is then recorded from the electrodes. During the EMG portion of the exam a very fine wire (sterilized) is placed into the muscle that records the electrical activity of that muscle. A patient typically experiences very minimal, if any, discomfort during the EMG/NCS test. We will always attempt to make the test as comfortable as possible for the patient.

How long does the test take?

In most cases the test is 30-45 minutes. More involved testing can take up to 45-60 minutes.

When will the doctor receive the results of my test?

We will make sure that your doctor receives the results no later than 24 hours following the test. In many cases the results can be faxed immediately after the completion of your test.

What type of information does an EMG/NCS provide to my doctor?

The test results assist your doctor in correctly diagnosing your condition and also provide valuable information on the current status of neurological and musculo-skeletal system. In addition, it may assist in the management of your condition.

What should I wear?

No special clothing is required come as you are. If you prefer not to wear a gown during the testing you may want to wear shorts and a tank top. This type of clothing allows for easy access to the body.

What should I not wear?

Please do not apply any lotions, creams or Vaseline to skin prior to test. This makes the nerve conduction portion of the exam difficult to perform.

Will my insurance cover the cost of the exam?

In most cases yes! However, some insurances only cover a portion of the exam. You may also be responsible for a co-pay if your insurance calls for one.

Who will be performing my test?

The person performing your test is Dr. David A. Boyce, Ed.D, PT ,ECS, OCS. David is a Board Certified Electromyographer and a Board Certified Orthopedic Physical Therapist. He has been in practice for over 15 years and is currently a Professor at Bellarmine University Physical Therapy Program. Dr. Boyce will do everything he can to make you as comfortable as possible during your test.