Abstract: A system is provided for stimulating and measuring performance of nerves which utilizes a novel system of electrodes. A large moistened absorbent pad-type electrode is used to provide one electrical contact with the body. A small moistened absorbent pad-type electrode in a handheld pencil-like configuration is used to provide a second, more targeted electrical contact with the body. By placing the large electrode along or near the spine, the pencil-like electrode may be used to excite and measure nerves on opposite sides of the body. In this manner, the electrical contact made by the large electrode is a constant during the measurement, both as to distance from the tested nerve site, and as to electrical conduction to the body. This arrangement provides more reliable and repeatable measurements. It also avoids patient discomfort associated with needle-like probes, tape-on probes, and other probes which involve discomfort.