How is a nerve problem diagnosed? - General Health Message Board

singer1 · 11-04-2005, 11:35 AM

Anyone have any ideas about what tests would be run for a nerve problem or what kind of Dr. would you see for it? Is it easily detected? Can pain from the back cause swelling in the leg or feet on one side? If so, what kind of back problem would that be?

6foot3 · 11-04-2005, 11:54 AM

Singer , the physician is a Neurologist.You might have to be referred to one by your G.P. There is 2 standard testing procedures : one is the NCV (NERVE CONDUCTION). They place an electrode on the nerve and shock it to see if its damaged.The 2nd is the EMG where they insert a needle attached to a probe/wire then have you tense your muscle again to see if there is nerve damage. Although these are uncomfortable they dont hurt very much!! I've had them done to me and i survived !! (i think??) harry!

Kari7171 · 11-04-2005, 02:00 PM

How do those tests show if there is any nerve damage? Just curious. I know I have some nerve damage because my foot is still somewhat numb because of a severe herniated disc I had surgery for. I was thinking of having my neurologist do that test.

6foot3 · 11-04-2005, 02:37 PM

The NVC is hooked to a machine (computer) that shows the wave lengths as the nerve responds to being shocked. This tells the neurologist if its Axonal or Demyelinating. Axomal usually truama or ALS etc. Demyelinating usually auto immune Multiple Sclerosis etc... EMG tells the strength of the nerve , also when you tense your nerves on this test you can hear how loud they sound.To hear your nerves amplified on this test they sound just like static electricity. kinda cool ! harry!