An electrodiagnostic test used to determine whether the conduction of impulses along specific nerves is normal or pathologically slowed. In the test an electrical shock is given to a nerve that controls a particular muscle. The time required for the muscle to contract and the distance the electrical stimulus has to travel along the nerve are recorded. In patients with neuropathies, the expected velocity of impulse conduction will not be met; slowing will be evident. Patients with cut or injured nerves will show maximal slowing of impulse conduction.