Causative & risk factors
Compression of the lateral cutaneous nerve can be caused by trauma or swelling of the tissues around its path. This can be precipitated by hip injuries or weight gain. Wearing tight or constrictive clothing can also lead to nerve compression. Pregnancy or repeated leg motion can also lead to nerve compression. Having diabetes increases the risk of developing meralgia paresthetica.
Clinical presentation
The patient experiences an intense, burning sensation in the outer aspect of the affected thigh. Other symptoms include tingling or numbness in the affected region. The outer thigh becomes very sensitive to even slight touch, whereas deep pressure does not produce any sensitivity.
Investigations
A detailed patient history is elicited and a physical exam of the legs is performed. Your doctor may then suggest certain tests such as X-ray or MRI scans, electromyography and nerve conduction studies.
An anesthetic is injected into the lateral cutaneous nerve. If the pain stops, then the diagnosis of meralgia paresthetica is confirmed.
Treatment
Adoption of certain conservative measures plays a major role in relieving the symptoms of meralgia paresthetica. The patient is advised to lose any excess weight and wear loose, comfortable clothing. Pain relieving drugs can be taken as and when necessary. Physical therapy is recommended.
When conservative measures do not help, the patient is put on stronger medications such as anti-depressants and anti-seizure drugs. Corticosteroid injections into the affected area may be suggested.
When all else fails, surgery to decompress the nerve is considered.
