Meralgia Paresthetica is caused by the compression of one of the large sensory nerves in the leg — the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve. This nerve provides sensation to the skin along the outer thigh starting from the inguinal ligament and extending down toward the knee. Compression of this nerve can result in numbness, tingling, pain or a burning sensation felt in the outer thigh.
The condition is also called #Bernhardt-#Roth syndrome.
Symptoms of meralgia paresthetica may include:
Usually the warning signs of meralgia paresthetica only on one side of the body.
Pain, tingling, numbness, or burning in the outside of your thigh.
Sensitivity to light touch rather than to firm pressure.
High sensitivity to heat.
Pain may be worse after you’ve been walking or standing for a time.
symptoms may be mild at first, but as the condition gets worse,it leads to sharper, shooting pain. It may go away and come back for no clear reason.
Meralgia Paresthetica Diagnosis:
Complete medical history
A comprehensive clinical exam, including neurological exams
Imaging studies such as MRI
Electrodiagnostic studies (EMG)
Diagnostic nerve block
Common causes of meralgia paresthetica may include:
Weight gain and obesity
Tight clothing, including pants, stockings, a belt, or girdle
Pregnancy
Injury, such as trauma from a seatbelt during a car crash
Something heavy worn around your waist, like a tool or gun belt
Diabetes
Repetitive motions that could irritate the nerve, such as certain leg movements
Standing or walking for a long time.
Meralgia Paresthetica Treatment:
Depending on the underlying cause of pressure on the nerve.
Physical therapy to strengthen the muscles of the legs and buttocks, and reduce injury to the hips
Wearing less restrictive clothing
Weight loss management
Corticosteroid injection to reduce swelling
In some cases, surgery may be necessary to relieve the compression surrounding the nerve.