Frequently Asked Questions

At Hands on Diagnostics of Alaska, our highly educated, licensed health care professionals are dedicated to helping our patients.

  • WHAT IS ELECTROMYOGRAPHY OR EMG?

    The EMG examines the muscle activity in your body. This study consists of inserting a small pin into the muscles and monitoring their activity. These results are monitored on a computer.

  • WHAT DOES THE EMG/NCS TEST DO?

    The EMG/NCS study examines the integrity of the peripheral nerves and muscles of the body. The study does NOT examine the brain or spinal cord. It is important to realize that you can have a nerve or muscle problem and not have any symptoms. This test does NOT measure pain. You may have a normal EMG-NCS study, even though you have severe pain.

  • HOW LONG IS THE STUDY?

    Each EMG/NCS study varies from patient to patient, depending on what results are obtained. As such, the study may take as little as 45 minutes or up to 2 hours.

  • WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT PARTS OF THE STUDY?

    The study is usually done in two parts: (1) Nerve Conduction Study – NCS, and (2) Electromyography – EMG

  • WHAT IS THE NERVE CONDUCTION STUDY OR NCS?

    The NCS involves examining the nerves in your arms or legs. This consists of placing sticky pads on the surface of the skin, and administering a small electrical impulse vibration to see how well the nerves react and function. These results are monitored on a computer.

  • IS THE EMG OR NCS PAINFUL?

    The test is not painful. You might feel slight skin discomfort but not any major pain.

  • CAN I WEAR LOTION ON MY ARMS AND/OR LEGS ON THE DAY OF THE STUDY?

    Please DO NOT use any lotion or cream on the day of the test. Such lotions or creams will make it difficult to perform the study.

  • WHAT DO I NEED TO DO BEFORE I ENTER THE EXAM ROOM?

    If you have accidentally used any type of lotion or cream on your hands or feet, PLEASE wash BOTH your hands and feet with soap and water in the office restroom, BEFORE entering the exam room.

  • WHAT TYPE OF CLOTHING SHOULD I WEAR?

    If possible, wear shorts and T-shirt. 
    Please remove any watches or rings you might be wearing on BOTH your hands/fingers.

  • DO I HAVE TO TELL THE THERAPIST ABOUT ANY SPECIFIC MEDICAL CONDITIONS?

    Yes, Please notify the therapist prior to the study if: 
    1) you think you may have AIDS or hepatitis, or 
    2) if you are taking any blood thinners