: Sensory Nerve Conduction Velocity, Right Ulnar Nerve
: This test measures how fast electrical signals travel along a sensory nerve in your right arm (the ulnar nerve). It is part of a nerve conduction study used to check for nerve damage or compression.
[": The test helps your doctor see whether the ulnar nerve in your right arm is conducting signals normally or showing signs of injury or compression."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 98635-6
- Short code
- Sensory NC velocity R ulnar n
- Synonyms
- Sensory NC velocity R ulnar 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 This Test Measures
: Nerve conduction studies use small electrical pulses to stimulate a nerve and record how quickly the signal travels and how strong it is. This test focuses on the sensory fibers of the right ulnar nerve, which carries sensation (such as touch and temperature) from your hand and forearm. The speed of the signal, called conduction velocity, is compared with expected values.
: How the Test Is Done
: You will likely lie down or sit while a technician places small electrodes on your skin along your right arm and hand. Brief electrical pulses are applied to stimulate the nerve, and a computer records the response. You may feel a quick tingling or twitching sensation. The test usually takes a few minutes and does not require sedation.
: What the Results Can Show
: Slower-than-expected conduction or a weaker signal can suggest nerve irritation, compression, or damage. Your doctor interprets the results alongside your symptoms, physical exam, and other tests. Results are reported as nerve conduction velocity and signal amplitude for the right ulnar sensory nerve.
: Before and During the Test
: Tell your doctor if you have a pacemaker or implanted electrical device, and follow any instructions about lotions, skin care, or medications. Keep your arm relaxed and warm during the test, since cold skin can affect nerve signals. Ask questions if you feel uncomfortable at any point.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
: This test is significant because ulnar nerve problems can cause numbness, tingling, or weakness in the hand and fingers. Measuring sensory conduction velocity helps distinguish nerve compression (such as at the elbow or wrist) from other causes of hand symptoms, guiding treatment decisions.
Short name
: Ulnar Sensory NCV (Right)
Frequently asked questions
: Does this test hurt?
: Do I need to fast or prepare?
: Can cold hands affect the results?
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