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⚡ Procedure · Apollomedics Lucknow

Paediatric EMG & Nerve Conduction Studies

Performed by Dr. Nishant Gopaal — Apollomedics Lucknow

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About This Service

What is Paediatric EMG & Nerve Conduction Studies?

Electromyography (EMG) and Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS) are neurophysiological tests that assess the function of peripheral nerves and muscles. NCS measures the speed and strength of electrical signals along nerves; EMG records the electrical activity within muscles. Together they are essential for diagnosing neuromuscular disorders including muscular dystrophies, peripheral neuropathies, myasthenia gravis, and Guillain-Barré syndrome in children.

Indications

When is it Indicated?

✓Floppy infant (hypotonia) — identifying cause
✓Muscle weakness or wasting
✓Suspected muscular dystrophy
✓Peripheral neuropathy (tingling, weakness in hands/feet)
✓Guillain-Barré Syndrome
✓Myasthenia gravis
✓Hereditary neuropathies (CMT disease)
✓Foot drop or limb weakness
✓Post-infectious weakness
What to Expect

The Procedure

1
Surface electrodes are placed on the skin over the nerve or muscle to be studied
2
A brief, mild electrical stimulus is applied for NCS — most children describe it as a mild tingling or shock sensation
3
EMG involves inserting a very fine needle electrode into the muscle — brief and mild discomfort, similar to a blood test
4
The child is encouraged to relax and then tense the muscle on instruction
5
Studies take 30–90 minutes depending on the number of nerves/muscles examined
6
Results are reported by Dr. Gopaal and discussed at a follow-up consultation
Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Is EMG/NCS painful for children?

NCS involves a brief mild electrical stimulus — most children tolerate this well. EMG involves a fine needle; the discomfort is typically mild and brief. Dr. Gopaal uses child-friendly techniques to minimise distress.

How should I prepare my child?

Keep the child warm before the test (cold reduces nerve conduction velocity). Avoid moisturising creams on the day. Explain the procedure honestly — it may feel unusual but is not dangerous.

What conditions can EMG/NCS diagnose?

EMG/NCS can identify: muscular dystrophy vs neuropathy vs neuromuscular junction disease; demyelinating vs axonal neuropathy; assess severity and prognosis of peripheral nerve disorders.

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Medically authored by Dr. Nishant Gopaal Consultant Pediatric Neurologist & Head of CDC · Apollomedics Super Speciality Hospital, Lucknow
MD Pediatrics · FIPN · BPNA UK · ORCID: 0000-0002-8408-535X
Last reviewed: 2026-09-27