07 Nov Meralgia Paresthetica , What’s in a name?!
Meralgia paresthetica (MP) sounds like a mouthful, but is actually a common condition seen by Illinois Pain Institute physicians. MP is a condition that causes thigh pain as a result of nerve impingement. The impinged nerve is the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve (LFCN), which is why MP may also be referred to as lateral femoral cutaneous nerve syndrome. Most commonly, the LFCN is entrapped under the inguinal ligament.
There is a range of different symptoms in the thigh including burning, stabbing, numbness or tingling, aching, and sensitivity. Causes of MP may be tight clothes, obesity, pregnancy, weight gain, diabetes, or local trauma. In general, MP is the result of increased pressure over the LFCN. Since pressure on the LFCN is what generally causes MP, it is advised to avoid wearing tight pants or belts.
There are clinical evaluations Illinois Pain Institute physicians can perform to properly diagnose MP. They may ask you a series of questions regarding your prior health, surgeries, injuries, etc. The Illinois Pain Institute physician may request an MRI of the pelvis and/or lumbar spine to further evaluate the symptoms.
Treatment of MP depends on the cause of impingement to the nerve. Your Illinois Pain Institute physician may recommend a change in wardrobe and wearing loose clothing. Possibly corticosteroid injections and a course of medications may be the route to take to reduce inflammation. If you or someone you know has been experiencing these symptoms, contact the Illinois Pain Institute physicians at Illinois Pain Institute to schedule an evaluation. Dial 1 (800) 340-7246 or schedule an appointment!