Peripheral Nerve Conduction Velocity (Radial Nerve)
This test measures how quickly electrical signals travel along the radial nerve, which controls movement in parts of your hand and forearm. It helps diagnose nerve damage or disorders affecting nerve function.
["This test assesses nerve health and can help identify conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome or peripheral neuropathy."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 98609-1
- Short code
- Sensory NC velocity L radial n
- Synonyms
- Sensory NC velocity L radial n
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- nerve-conduction
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What Is a Normal Result?
There is no single 'normal' range for nerve conduction velocity because it varies based on factors like nerve thickness, body size, and the specific nerve being tested. Your doctor will compare your results to your own baseline or to standard values for your age and nerve type.
How Is This Test Performed?
You’ll lie down on an exam table while electrodes are placed on your skin along the radial nerve path. A mild electrical stimulus is applied to measure how long it takes for the signal to travel from one electrode to another. The process is usually painless and takes about 30 minutes.
Why Might Your Doctor Order This Test?
Your doctor may recommend this test if you have symptoms like numbness, tingling, weakness, or pain in your hand or forearm. It can help diagnose conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome, nerve compression, or other peripheral nerve disorders.
What Preparations Are Needed?
No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to avoid certain medications that could affect nerve function (like some pain relievers or muscle relaxants) before the test. Wear loose clothing and avoid applying lotions or oils to the skin where electrodes will be placed.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
This test helps identify nerve damage or dysfunction by measuring how well electrical signals travel along the radial nerve. Abnormal results may indicate conditions like peripheral neuropathy, nerve compression (e.g., cubital tunnel syndrome), or other neurological disorders. It can guide treatment decisions, such as physical therapy, medication, or surgery.
Short name
Radial Nerve Conduction Velocity
Frequently asked questions
What Are Common Causes of Abnormal Results?
How Long Does It Take to Get Results?
Is This Test Painful?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy