Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

[y2kattorney]

Both my family DR and PT believe I have CTS. For insurance purposes I must have the appropriate diagnostic tests. I am wondering in there are noninvasive diagnostic tests accepted by insurance companies (Medicare in particular). Please let there be . I hate needles.

thanks for your advice.

[myodoc]

To accurately diagnose CTS, we use the EMG study as this has been found to be the most sensitive (90%). From a medical standpoint, the test is considered complete if both the nerve conductions (shock part) and needle examination are performed. Typically for CTS, the needle portion is rather limited anyway. One can certainly do a shortcut with nerve conductions only but this would not be up to the standard of care. The insurance company usually pays for both. From their standpoint, doing only one portion is cheaper but still not correct from our standpoint as physicians. Radiologists have been trying to use ultrasound of the carpal tunnel to supplant the EMG study but haven't proven superiority.

Hope that's helpful.

[Tinlizzy1959]

I had an EMG and Nerve Conduction Study done August 4th, and it was no big deal at all. The shock part of the test did NOT hurt, it was just like a muscle twitching sensation, or feeling of being tapped with one of those rubber reflex hammers the doctors use. The needle part did not hurt at all, and I am a super coward. Yes you can feel a slight pinch, but it is not bad. I almost chickened out, but afterward I was glad I didn't, because I have had misquito bites that hurt worse. Don't listen to online horror stories. Your technician or doctor will stop immediately if you need him/her to, and you can quit the test at any time. Mine took about 20 minutes, and part of that time was waiting while the readings and measurements were being taken. You will be fine. Relax. It is not bad at all. I would have another if I needed to.