DETECT PROBLEMS ALONG NERVES THAT ARE TOO SUBTLE TO FIND THROUGH OTHER EXAMS

SSEP Testing (Somato-Sensory Evoked Potentials)

Somatosensory evoked potential (SSEP) tests evaluate the nerve pathway from the peripheral nerve through the spine to the somatosensory region of the brain. (“Somato” means body; “sensory” means the reception and transmission of sense impressions.) SSEP tests are useful in evaluating spinal cord injuries or disease, neuromuscular disease, and demyelinating diseases such as multiple sclerosis and others. This is a very simple test and it involves a series of small stimuli in the median and/or tibial nerves and a recording of the response as it reaches the brain.

VEP Testing (Visual Evoked Potentials)

Visual evoked potential test checks the nerves that go from the eye to the visual cortex. The VEP is used to identify impaired transmission along the optic nerve pathways. This is a very simple test and it involves a series of visual stimuli via a television monitor and a recording of the response as it reaches the brain.

BAER Testing (Brainstem Auditory Evoked Potentials)

Brainstem auditory evoked potential tests the ear and the brain for auditory and brainstem disorders. This is a very simple test and it involves a series of sounds that are heard via a set of headphones and a recording of the response as it reaches the brain.

physical therapist doing evoked potentials test on a woman
Thomas Welch doing Evoked Potentials Testing on a patient.

Get Ready For Your Evoked Potentials Testing…

Before the Test

Make sure that you bring with you any relevant results of other tests you have done in regards to your condition. Have available the names of medications you are taking as well as your insurance information and any referral you have received from your doctor. Do not use lotion in your arms and legs before you come for the test.

During the Test

Your Physical Therapist will explain to you the details of the testing procedures and all that it entails.  You will be comfortable during the test.  Make sure that you ask any questions that you may have.

After the Test

Your Physical Therapist will go over the preliminary test findings and how this may alter your physical therapy treatments.  The test results will be forwarded to your physician if requested.

Call us now at 1-(855) EMG-TEST or 1-(855) 364-8378