Nerve Conduction Velocity (NCV)

This test measures how fast the nerve impulse travels along the nerve. Electrodes will be taped to your skin and you will feel tiny electrical shocks which may make your arm or leg “jump.”

What it shows

  • Nerve damage or disease (neuropathy).

  • Nerve compression (like carpal tunnel syndrome or a pinched nerve).

  • Nerve injury after trauma.

  • Whether symptoms are due to a nerve disorder, a muscle disorder, or both.

What happens during the test

  1. Electrode placement: Small surface electrodes are placed on the skin over the nerve and muscle.

  2. Stimulation: The nerve is given a very quick, mild electrical pulse.

  3. Recording: The electrodes record how long it takes the signal to travel and how strong it is.

  4. Duration: The test usually takes 20–45 minutes, depending on how many nerves are tested.

What it feels like

  • You’ll feel a brief tingling or shock-like sensation when the nerve is stimulated.

  • The pulses are not dangerous, but some people find them a little uncomfortable.

  • Unlike needle EMG, no needles are involved in NCV—just skin electrodes.

After the test

  • No recovery time is needed—you can return to normal activities right away.

  • There are no lasting side effects.