Electromyogram (EMG) ' If a patient has weakness or twitching in a muscle, this test can help to distinguish between problems in muscles, in the nerves supplying the muscles, or in the spinal cord itself. A sterile needle is placed into the muscle from which small electrical signals are recorded when the muscle is contracted and when it is relaxed. This process is repeated for each muscle to be tested. This is similar to acupuncture.

Nerve Conduction Velocity (NCV) ' This test assesses peripheral nerves. Peripheral nerves connect the spinal cord with the muscles. Electrodes are placed over the nerve to be assessed as well as the muscles it innervates. Small electric shocks are applied at one electrode. The time it takes these electrical pulses to reach the other electrode is recorded. This test can help determine if a disease of the peripheral nerves is causing pain, weakness, or numbness. There is no risk to this test.