NCS/EMG examination for common disorders

(Click the main headings for pdf versions of the full guidelines) 

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Context

Investigation of a patient with clinically suspected carpal tunnel syndrome to support diagnosis and assess severity

Key recommendations

1) Hand temperature is recorded (Standard)

2) Sensory conduction between wrist and digit is measured for both the median nerve and a comparison nerve in the same hand (Standard)

3) Median motor conduction from wrist to hand is measured (Standard)

4) Where 2) and 3) are normal a more sensitive comparative test is performed (Standard)

5) The severity of median nerve abnormality is expressed using a 0-6 scale (Muscle and Nerve 2000; 23; 1280-3)

Related documents

BSCN position statement on the use of handheld devices for carpal tunnel syndrome testing

AANEM Guidelines for electrodiagnostic testing for CTS 

Ulnar Neuropathy at the Elbow 

Generalised Peripheral Neuropathy 

Investigation of critical illness neuro/myopathy during the COVID-19 epidemic