“How do you test for nerve damage?”

We do a basic neurology examination, take a very good history, and often use EMG/NCV and/or SSEP testing, which can be very helpful to aide diagnosis.

Physical exam, nerve conduction studies, skin biopsy for small fiber neuropathy, and finally in some cases nerve biopsy.

Nerve damage is a catch-all term for many diseases. I would recommend seeing your primary care physician since it may be due to a metabolic condition such as diabetes. If the primary care physician cannot diagnose the problem, then I would see a neurologist.

The test is called Nerve Conduction Studies and Electromyography. The nerve conduction studies consist of small electric pulses. The physician then measures nerve properties like conduction velocity, amplitude, etc. The second part of the test, the electromyography (EMG) part, is performed with an acupuncture like needle to evaluate for evidence of denervation (nerve damage) or muscle damage. These are routine procedures done in the office. These are performed by neurologists or physiatrists.

If there is suspicion for nerve damage, I would recommend letting your primary care physician know so that he can refer you to a neurologist for further evaluation.

You test initially with a physical examination of sensory and motor functions. Then you proceed to do the most commonly performed diagnostic testing done when assessing nerve damage. This is known as nerve conduction velocity (study). This is to see if the nerve conduction is slowed or absent thus indicating nerve damage. You can also test with Electromyography (EMG), which assesses in part the control that the nerve may have on the muscle.
I hope this answers your question. 

Dr. F. 

Testing for nerve damage typically involves thorough history and physical examination to assess for any deficits, followed by a procedure known as electomyography and nerve condition study, abbreviated EMG/NCS(or NCV). This procedure is done on the affected limbs by placing electrodes along the path of the nerve, use a stimulator to send an impulse to see how the nerve responds and measurements to account for the distance between the electrode and the stimulation point. At the end of that, a small needle is placed in selective muscle groups. The needle serves to assess the muscle function when at rest and activated. There is usually blood work involved as well to help determine the cause, and/or thorough review of your medications, if you are on any meds. Nerve biopsies can also be done to check a nerve sample underneath the microscope.

Heather Horton, MD