Overview
Meralgia paresthetica is a medical condition that causes pain and sensations of aching, burning, numbness or stabbing in your thigh area. The condition results from compression (pressure on or squeezing) of your lateral femoral cutaneous nerve (LFCN). This large nerve supplies sensation to the front and side of your thigh.
“Meralgia” means “pain in the thigh,” and “paresthetica” means “burning pain, tingling or itch.”
While the condition can be bothersome, it’s not life-threatening or dangerous to your health.
Who does meralgia paresthetica affect?
Anyone can develop meralgia paresthetica, but you’re more likely to develop this condition if you:
- Have diabetes, hypothyroidism and/or alcohol use disorder.
- Have overweight or obesity.
- Have lead poisoning.
- Are injured by your seatbelt during a car accident.
- Are pregnant.
- Had recent surgery around your hip area.
- Wear tight clothing, girdles or stockings or wear a heavy utility belt (like a tool belt).
- Have legs of two different lengths.
- Have scoliosis.
How common is meralgia paresthetica?
Meralgia paresthetica is relatively common, but it’s frequently misdiagnosed. Researchers estimate that it affects 3 to 4 people out of every 10,000 per year.
Symptoms
When to see a doctor
Complications
- High blood pressure.
- Diabetes.
- Heart failure.
- Some types of heart valve disease.
Prevention
- Control high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes.
- Don't smoke or use tobacco.
- Eat a diet that's low in salt and saturated fat.
- Exercise at least 30 minutes a day on most days of the week unless your health care team says not to.
- Get good sleep. Adults should aim for 7 to 9 hours daily.
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Reduce and manage stress.
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