What Is Meralgia Paresthetica? Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

Any person on our planet makes many movements throughout the day. Movement is essential for people. That is why by nature, we have strong legs. They allow us to overcome long distances on foot without problems. But even limbs as strong as legs can fail.

One such failure is thigh pain and numbness. Because of this condition, a person cannot move normally and perform basic functions.

That is why it is extremely important to understand what measures you can take to improve the condition.

In our article, we will tell you about meralgia paresthetica. We will also tell you about the typical symptoms of the disease. And you can also learn how to cure this condition. 

What Is Meralgia Paresthetica?

It is a condition causing tingling, numbness, and burning pain in the outer thigh. It occurs when the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve (LFCN) is compressed or pinched. The LFCN is a sensory nerve that supplies the skin on the lateral aspect of the thigh. The compression of this nerve leads to abnormal sensations and pain.

The condition is also known as:

• Bernhardt-Roth syndrome.
• Lateral femoral cutaneous neuropathy.
• Neuralgia paresthetica.

Thigh pain and numbness is a rare condition that affects approximately 4 in 10,000 people. It is more common in men than women and usually occurs between the ages of 30 and 60.

Meralgia Paresthetica Symptoms

The symptoms of MP usually develop gradually over time. The most common symptoms include:

• Tingling, numbness, or burning pain on the outer thigh.
• Hypersensitivity to touch or pressure on the affected area.
• Pain that worsens with standing, walking, or prolonged sitting.
• Weakness or difficulty moving the affected leg.
• Loss of sensation or numbness in the affected area.
• Skin changes such as thinning, discoloration, or redness.
• Itching or irritation in the affected area.

The symptoms of MP can be mild or severe and can interfere with daily activities. In some cases, the pain can be so intense that it affects sleep and causes depression and anxiety.

Meralgia Paresthetica Causes

MP is caused by compression or irritation of the LFCN. The nerve runs from the spine, through the groin, and down the outer thigh. Anything that puts pressure on the nerve can cause MP. Some common causes of MP include:

• Obesity. Extra weight puts pressure on the nerve as it passes through the groin.
• Tight clothing. Wearing tight clothing such as belts, pants, or corsets can compress the nerve.
• Pregnancy. The growing uterus can pressure the nerve as it passes through the pelvis.
• Diabetes. High blood sugar levels can damage the nerve and cause meralgia paresthetica.
• Injury. Trauma to the thigh or hip can damage the nerve and cause MP.
• Surgery. Surgery in the hip or groin area can damage the nerve and cause MP.
• Repetitive motion. Activities that involve repetitive motion of the hip or thigh irritate the nerve.
• Spinal conditions. Spinal stenosis, herniated disc, etc., can compress the nerve and cause MP.

Risk Factors

Certain factors can increase the risk of developing nerve-thigh pain. These include:

• Age. MP is more common in people between the ages of 30 and 60.
• Gender. Men are more likely to develop MP than women.
• Obesity. Extra weight puts pressure on the nerve and increases the risk of MP.
• Diabetes. High blood sugar levels can damage the nerve and increase the risk of MP.
• Pregnancy. The growing uterus can put pressure on the nerve and increase the risk of MP.
• Certain occupations. Work that needs prolonged standing, walking, or sitting can increase the risk of MP.
• Tight clothing. Wearing tight clothing such as belts, pants, or corsets can compress the nerve and increase the risk of MP.

Diagnosis of Meralgia Paresthetica

MP is diagnosed through a physical exam and medical history. Your doctor will examine the affected area. And then, they will check for signs of numbness, tingling, or weakness. They may also test your reflexes and muscle strength.

Sometimes, your doctor may order imaging tests such as an X-ray or MRI. They are to rule out other possible causes of your symptoms. Electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies (NCS) can also help determine if there is nerve damage.

Treatment for Meralgia Paresthetica

MP treatment depends on the symptoms’ severity and underlying cause. Sometimes, people need no treatment. It’s because the symptoms may go away independently. But if the symptoms persist or worsen, several treatment options are available.

Prevention of Meralgia Paresthetica

Preventing nerve thigh pain involves reducing the risk factors associated with the condition. These may include:

• Maintaining a healthy weight. Losing weight if you are overweight or obese can reduce pressure on the nerve.
• Wearing loose-fitting clothing. Avoid tight-fitting clothing. Don’t wear belts, pants, or corsets. This way, you can reduce pressure on the nerve.
• Taking frequent breaks. Take frequent breaks to reduce pressure on the nerve. It can be useful if your job requires prolonged standing, walking, or sitting.
• Using proper lifting techniques. When lifting heavy objects, use proper lifting techniques. It can help reduce the risk of injury to the thigh or hip.

What Is the Negative Effect of Meralgia Paresthetica on Life?

Meralgia paresthetica pain can harm a person’s life. It affects their daily activities and well-being.

One of the most significant negative effects is chronic pain and discomfort. The pain and numbness in the outer thigh can be constant or intermittent. It makes engaging in physical activities or even sitting or standing for long periods challenging. This can lead to a sedentary lifestyle. It can have negative consequences on a person’s health and well-being.

Chronic pain and discomfort can also cause sleep disturbances. It leads to insomnia or restless sleep. It can have a negative impact on a person’s mental health and cognitive functioning. It makes it difficult for them to concentrate, stay alert, and make decisions.

Also, meralgia paresthetica pain can have psychological effects. The constant pain and discomfort can cause:

• Anxiety.
• Depression.
• A sense of hopelessness.

This can lead to social isolation. Individuals may withdraw from social activities and interactions.

The condition can also affect a person’s ability to work and earn a living. Jobs that need long periods of standing or sitting can exacerbate symptoms. It makes it difficult to perform their job duties effectively. This can lead to financial stress and insecurity. And this can further exacerbate psychological symptoms.

Moreover, nerve thigh pain can negatively impact a person’s quality of life. It leads to reduced physical and social functioning. Individuals may experience limitations in their daily activities. It can be walking, climbing stairs, or driving. This makes it difficult for people to enjoy hobbies and recreational activities. This can lead to feelings of frustration, anger, and disappointment. And eventually, this further exacerbates psychological symptoms.

It is vital to seek proper medical care and develop an individualized treatment plan.

Bottom Line 

As a result, MP is a condition that can cause tingling, numbness, and burning pain in the outer thigh. It is caused by compression or irritation of the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve. Several factors can also cause MP. They are obesity, tight clothing, pregnancy, injury, and spinal conditions.

Diagnosis of nerve thigh pain involves a physical exam, medical history, and imaging tests. MP treatment depends on the symptoms’ severity and underlying cause.

Preventing MP involves reducing the risk factors associated with the condition. If you experience symptoms of MP, consult a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis.

FAQs 

• Does meralgia paresthetica ever go away?

It can sometimes go away on its own, but in some cases, it may persist or worsen without proper treatment.

• What can be mistaken for meralgia paresthetica?

It can be mistaken for other conditions that cause similar symptoms. It can be herniated discs, sciatica, and diabetic neuropathy.

• How do I know if I have meralgia paresthetica?

You do if you experience numbness, tingling, or burning pain in the outer thigh. Your doctor may perform physical exams and diagnostic tests to confirm the diagnosis.

• Can ultrasound detect meralgia paresthetica?

Ultrasound visualizes the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve. It’s involved in meralgia paresthetica and can help to diagnose the condition. But nerve conduction studies are often more reliable for confirming the diagnosis.

• Why should you see a doctor at the slightest symptom of MP?

This is due to the fact that timely help may prevent the further development of the disease. This often helps patients avoid complications of the disease. Also, timely help can completely cut the occurrence of the same disease in the future.