Reviewed on : 23 May 2019

Reviewed by : Judith Dunne Chief Neurophysiologist UHCW

Expires : 23 May 2021

Neurophysiology Nerve Conduction Service

This is a diagnostic service only and does not routinely provide management advice.

Results will be sent back to the referring clinician to discuss the results with the patient and agree a treatment plan.

Results may sometimes suggest a treatment route but the referring clinician will need to ensure compliance with patient choice and CCG referral guidelines.

Clinical Physiologists perform all of the procedures under supervision of a Consultant.  We have both male and female physiologists.

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS): Entrapment of the median nerve at the wrist

Symptoms:

• Intermittent tingling and numbness in the digits 1-3 and half of digit 4
• Most severe at night
• Can occur whilst driving or holding items in the hand
• Tendency to drop things
• Weakness of grip strength and dexterity when severe.

Ulnar nerve entrapment / Ulnar nerve compression

Ulnar entrapment at the elbow should be considered when the fourth and fifth digits of the hand develop altered sensations or when intrinsic hand muscles become weak or atrophic.

Sometimes there is tenderness at the elbow.

Referral

Carpal Tunnel & Ulnar Service-Neurophysiology Dept-University Hospital Cov-RKB

Only available at UHCW Coventry

This is not an EMG service

Exclusions:

• Polyneuropathy
• Any lower limb testing
• C5-7 Radiculopathies
• C8 -T1 Radiculopathies
• Myelopathy
• Stroke
• Acute or traumatic lesions of the peripheral nerves
• Any conditions requiring EMG testing as confirmation of diagnosis
• Any other neurological disorder
• Children under 16 Years

Any patients requiring NCS and EMG studies must be referred to the appropriate Speciality.