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Diagnostic Neurophysiologic Tests

Various neurophysiologic tests are available for diagnosing neurologic disorders. These do not, however, directly measure the function of pain-transmitting nerve fibres (see section “Diagnostic Tests of Pain Fibres”).

Electroneurography
By stimulating a nerve, for example at the wrist, and measuring the response in the fingers, the electrical properties of nerves can be determined and signs of disturbances of function or injuries can be detected.
 
Electromyography
By inserting a very fine needle into a muscle, electrical signals in the muscle can be measured. Changes in these signals may indicate damage to the nerve supplying the muscle, for example due to a herniated disc, a nerve injury, or a polyneuropathy (damage to multiple nerves such as occurs in diabetes).

Evoked Potentials
Evoked potentials measure changes in activity in the brain caused by stimulation in a body area or vice versa. Sensory evoked potentials are measured in the brain and are produced by applying an electrical current to the hands or feet, while motor evoked potentials are measured in the hands or lower legs after magnetic stimulation of the brain.

Uses of Ultrasound in Neurology
The arteries that supply blood to the brain can be visualised in both the neck and the head by means of ultrasound (US), which allows changes in the vessels such as clots or narrowing as well as causes of stroke or other risk factors to be identified. US examination of peripheral nerves is also useful in detecting the structure of nerve injuries such as compression, swelling, tumors, or separation so that appropriate treatment can be initiated.
 
Electroencephalography (EEG)
By recording the brain waves, the EEG helps to evaluate brain function in various disorders such as headaches or epilepsy.