Sciatic nerve pain is often related to herniated disks in the low back and low spine. The sciatic nerve extends from the lower back and down both sides of the hips, buttocks, legs, and feet. Sciatica is a condition that affects the sciatic nerve, which is the largest nerve in the human body. Most herniated disks affect the lumbar spine (lower back), but they can also affect the cervical spine (the neck). Herniated disks affect nearby nerves and can cause irritation, pain, weakness, and numbness in the legs and arms. The vertebrae are the individual bones that make up the spine. Herniated disk disease refers to problems with the rubber cushions or disks between the vertebrae.
Doctors use EMGs, as well, to help diagnose neurological or muscular diseases.Īn EMG can detect whether a muscle is responding properly to nerve signals, which can help determine whether a person has a nerve disease or a muscle condition.Īn NCV test may be used to diagnose the following conditions: Herniated disk disease
Sometimes, NCV tests are done in conjunction with electromyograms or EMGs. NCV tests can help diagnose a variety of muscular and neuromuscular conditions. During the test, a nerve is directly stimulated with an electrical current to see how it reacts. The purpose of an NCV test is to look for nerve damage. Image credit: Kiwi-sonja, (2008, June 6). Share on Pinterest An NCV test may be used to diagnose nerve damage.
