Re: How accurate are nerve conduction tests?

In Reply to: How accurate are nerve conduction tests? posted by robin on December 12, 2003 at 01:41:23:

My os told me that a conduction test result of 4 milliseconds or greater indicates carpal tunnel syndrome is present. This test, along with Tinel's test, Phalen's sign, and patient history are all taken into consideration when making the diagnosis. My neurologist did the myleogram and the nerve conduction tests at the same time. He did testing from the shoulder down, to rule out the possibility that the shoulder or elbow could be the cause. Some doctors will order an mri and/or xrays as well, to rule out other possibilities. It's up to you and your doctor to put the test results, your history, and your symptoms together to arrive at a solution to the problem.

It is my understanding that all the nerve conduction test does is measure the time it takes an electrical current to travel from one electrode to another. The quicker the time, the faster the current was transmitted along the nerve measured.