Localisation of where the problem lies is the first and often most important step to accurate diagnosis and appropriate management of patients with neurological symptoms.

Investigations such as nerve conduction studies are requested by a doctor. Neurophysiology can help in the diagnosis of entrapment neuropathy e.g. carpal tunnel syndrome and ulnar neuropathy, radiculopathy (disorder involving the nerve root), peripheral neuropathy, neuromuscular junction disorders e.g. myasthenia gravis and muscle disorders (myopathy).

Nerve conduction studies and electromyography (EMG) are useful and generally very well tolerated. Small impulses, like ‘static’, will be felt. Electrode patches attached to your skin record the electrical response. In a minority, a small acupuncture-sized needle (EMG) will be required to record the electrical activity in muscle. In the appropriate clinical context, test results can be diagnostic or help to exclude competing diagnoses.