Welcome to Countryside Neurology! We want to ensure that your experience with us is as comfortable and informative as possible. If your neurologist has recommended a Nerve Conduction Study (NCS) as part of your evaluation, here’s what you can expect:
1. Preparation:
Before the NCS, there’s typically no special preparation required. You can eat, take medications, and go about your day as usual.
2. Checking In:
Arrive at our office and check in with our friendly staff. You’ll be greeted warmly and made to feel comfortable.
3. Meeting Your Specialist:
You’ll meet your neurologist or a trained technician who will explain the procedure and answer any questions you may have. It’s essential to communicate any concerns or medical conditions before starting.
4. Electrodes and Wires:
You’ll be asked to roll up your sleeves or pants and make yourself comfortable on the examination table. Your skin will be cleaned, and small electrodes (sticky patches) will be placed on your skin over specific nerves.
5. Stimulating and Recording:
During the NCS, your specialist will use a small, handheld device to deliver a mild electrical impulse to one of the electrodes. This impulse stimulates the nerve, and the electrical response is recorded by the other electrodes. This process is repeated for several nerves to evaluate their function.
6. Sensations:
You may feel a brief, mild tingling or twitching sensation when the electrical impulse is applied, but it’s generally not painful. Don’t worry; the discomfort is minimal and temporary.
7. Multiple Nerves Tested:
Your neurologist may test multiple nerves in various areas of your body, depending on your symptoms and medical history. This helps pinpoint the location and nature of any nerve-related issues.
8. Duration:
The NCS procedure is relatively quick, often taking between 15 to 30 minutes, depending on how many nerves are being tested.
9. After the Test:
After the NCS, you can resume your regular activities immediately. There’s no recovery time needed. You might notice some mild redness on the skin where the electrodes were placed, but this typically fades quickly.
10. Results and Next Steps:
Your neurologist will analyze the test results and discuss them with you during a follow-up appointment. The NCS findings will help in diagnosing nerve-related conditions and determining the most appropriate treatment plan.
Remember, the NCS is a safe and valuable tool that provides essential information about your nerve function. Our team at Countryside Neurology is here to support you every step of the way. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at 727-712-1567.
We look forward to helping you on your journey to better neurological health!
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