These two studies go hand in hand and are required to differentiate a neurogenic from myogenic weakness of the muscles.They are used to distinguish between various diseases affecting the spinal cord, roots, plexus, peripheral nerves and muscles –viz; anterior horn cell diseases, radiculopathies, brachial plexus or lumbosacral plexus lesions, peripheral neuropathies and Myopathies.

Common entrapment neuropathies such as Carpal tunnel syndrome and Ulnar neuropathies can be diagnosed by nerve conduction and EMG studies that are tailored for a given clinical condition.

In addition to this, it evaluates for the clinician the site of the lesion and at times the type of the lesion e.g. differentiating Demyelinating neuropathy from an axonal degenerating neuropathy. The findings help the Clinician in deciding subsequent treatment and investigations e.g. Nerve biopsy vs. myelogram or CT/MRI Scan or physiotherapy. In case of traumatic nerve injuries in the arm or leg it helps in deciding further management e.g. Physiotherapy versus re-exploration of the nerve.