Neurodiagnostics Center
The Neurodiagnostics Center at Sacred Heart Hospital provides the latest technology for diagnosing neurological disorders, including epilepsy, nerve pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, and neuromuscular diseases.
The Neurodiagnostics Center also provides EMG and nerve conduction studies every Tuesday in Crestview at 550 West Redstone Avenue.
The Neurodiagnostic Center has highly trained professionals to conduct the following studies:
NCV (Nerve Conduction Velocities/Studies)
Nerve conduction studies are performed by a technologist. The technologist will tape small electrodes to the skin and apply a small electrical stimulus along the nerve pathway. This is generally not considered painful, but can be unpleasant at times. The technologists performing Nerve Conduction Studies are overseen by a nationally board registered technologist through the American Association of Electrodiagnostic Technologists (AAET). This board is recognized by the American Association of Electrodiagnostic Medicine (AAEM).
EMG (Electromyogram)
EMG is an invasive procedure performed by a physician. It consists of a very small needle which is placed within the muscles of the affected area. This is used for evaluation of muscle disorders associated with nerve problems. This is also considered somewhat unpleasant, but generally not painful. EMG and Nerve Conduction Studies are ordered together for the purpose of evaluating the peripheral nerve at its exit from the spine to its end, usually within the arms or legs. EMG and Nerve Conduction Studies are overseen by our medical director George Dmytrenko M.D. He is a fellow member of the American Association of Electrodiagnostic Medicine.
EMG and Nerve Conduction studies are used to evaluate nerve pain and numbness associated with disorders affecting the arms, such as Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, as well neck and back problems associated with radiculopathy. We pride ourselves in having highly trained, very experienced professionals performing this testing.
EEG (Electroencephalogram)
EEG is performed by a technologist. It consists of small electrodes attached to the scalp with a water soluable paste and cotton ball or tape. This test is not uncomfortable and only requires that you come relaxed and ready to sleep (no caffeine). For children, it is important that they are sleep deprived. Keeping them up two hours past their bedtime and waking them two hours prior to their usual wake time is a good recipe for sleep during our test.
EEGs are used in evaluating seizure disorders. Many times these seizure disorders are mistaken for issues such as A.D.D. and hyperactivity in school-aged children while at home or school.
Commonly asked questions:
Q. Where should I park for my test?
A. Park near the main entrance to Sacred Heart Hospital, located off Ninth Avenue across from Cordova Mall in Pensacola. There is usually plenty of parking in the 9th Avenue parking garage adjacent to the main entrance.
Q. Where do I check in for my test?
A. Come directly to the Neurodiagnostic Center. Directly behind the main entrance reception desk is elevator A, next to admissions. Come to the third floor. We are in suite 306.
Q. What do I need to bring?
A. You will need to bring an order for your testing. Bringing a signed order from your doctor will ensure a quick registration process.
Q. What do I wear?
A. Generally, clean loose-fitting clothes with undergarments are fine. Shorts and short-sleeved shirts during summer months are ideal.
Q. Can I eat and take my medicines before coming?
A. Please feel free to eat and take your medicines as prescribed by your physician. Please stay away from caffeine the day of your test.
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