Neurophysiology Services in Swindon

Neurophysiologists explore how the brain influences the wider nervous system and its functions. Their work helps identify the most effective treatments for a variety of neurological conditions, ultimately aiming to enhance patients’ quality of life.

They commonly support people experiencing issues such as migraines, headaches, epilepsy, strokes, tumours, back or leg pain, and multiple sclerosis.
As a specialist field, neurophysiology focuses on understanding how the brain interacts with the peripheral nervous system and how these connections affect health and wellbeing.

Some of the common reasons someone may be referred to a neurophysiologist include:

• Migraines or severe headaches
• Episodes of dizziness or imbalance
• Seizures or unexplained collapses
• Changes in vision
• Memory or concentration difficulties
• Tingling, numbness, or unusual sensations
• Problems with movement or mobility

Millions of people in the UK live with neurological conditions and the symptoms they bring. Getting an accurate diagnosis is an important first step, as it ensures you receive the most appropriate treatment for your individual needs.

Our neurophysiology departments support patients with a broad spectrum of neurological disorders, including:

• Epilepsy
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Space‑occupying lesions
• Vascular conditions
• Encephalitis
• Atrophy‑related disorders
• Metabolic conditions
• Acoustic neuromas
• Spinal injuries

The treatment you receive will depend on your symptoms and clinical findings. Your consultant will assess your condition and provide expert guidance. If further tests or additional treatment are required, these will be clearly explained to you during your consultation

Diagnostic Tests We Offer

We provide a comprehensive selection of neurophysiological investigations to assess conditions affecting both the central and peripheral nervous systems.

Electroencephalogram (EEG)

An EEG helps identify and classify different types of epilepsy by recording the brain’s electrical activity. It can also highlight abnormalities linked to conditions such as tumours, vascular disorders, encephalitis, atrophy, or metabolic issues.

Ambulatory EEG Monitoring

This form of EEG allows continuous recording while the patient goes about their daily routine at home. Monitoring can last up to 72 hours. In some cases, patients may need to return to the hospital to check electrode placement or replace monitor batteries.

Sleep‑Deprived EEG

A consultant may request an EEG following sleep deprivation if further diagnostic detail is needed. This is typically recommended when a routine EEG has not provided enough information.

Visual Evoked Potentials (VEPs)

VEPs assess how the brain responds to visual stimuli. They play an important role in identifying demyelination, making them a useful tool in supporting the diagnosis of conditions such as multiple sclerosis (MS). They are often used alongside auditory and somatosensory evoked potential tests.

**Auditory Evoked Potentials

(Brain Stem Evoked Potentials – BSEP)** Although used less frequently since MRI became widely available, BSEPs help evaluate the integrity of the auditory nerve pathways. They can assist in diagnosing issues such as acoustic neuromas and may also support investigations into demyelinating conditions.

Somatosensory Evoked Potentials (SSEPs)

SSEPs measure how the brain and spinal cord respond to sensory input. They can provide evidence of demyelination, help diagnose spinal cord compression, and are often used when assessing spinal injuries.

Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS)

NCS are commonly used to investigate nerve entrapments (such as carpal tunnel syndrome), diabetic or peripheral neuropathies, and nerve injuries. These studies can also help predict recovery following trauma.

Electromyography (EMG)

An EMG is usually carried out alongside nerve conduction tests when clinically indicated. It involves using a fine needle to record muscle activity, helping identify abnormalities associated with neuropathic or muscle disorders.