<br />What is Meralgia Paresthetica?<br />Meralgia paresthetica (also called lateral femoral cutaneous neuropathy) is a condition caused by compression of the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve, which supplies sensation to the outer thigh. This compression leads to **tingling, numbness, burning pain, or hypersensitivity in the thigh. <br />Causes <br /><br />The lateral femoral cutaneous nerve can become compressed due to: <br />- Tight clothing (e.g., belts, corsets, or tight pants) <br />- Obesity or weight gain (increased pressure on the nerve) <br />- Pregnancy (due to swelling and pressure changes) <br />- Diabetes (nerve susceptibility to compression) <br />- Pelvic or hip surgery (scar tissue or positioning injury) <br />-Prolonged sitting or standing (e.g., desk jobs, driving) <br />Symptoms <br />- Burning or stinging pain on the outer thigh <br />-Numbness or tingling (like "pins and needles") <br />- Hypersensitivity to light touch <br />- Symptoms worsen with walking or standing <br />Diagnosis <br />1. Physical Exam: Tinel’s sign (tapping over the nerve reproduces symptoms). <br />2. Nerve Block: Relief after anesthetic injection confirms diagnosis. <br />3. Imaging (MRI/Ultrasound): Rarely needed unless a mass is suspected. <br />4. EMG/NCS: Usually normal but helps rule out other neuropathies. <br />Treatment <br />Conservative Management (90% improve with these): <br />-Loose clothing (avoid tight belts/waistbands) <br />-Weight loss (if obesity is a factor) <br />- Physical therapy (stretching hip flexors) <br />- NSAIDs (ibuprofen for inflammation) <br />- Nerve blocks (steroid + anesthetic injections) <br /><br />Surgical Options (if severe & persistent): <br />- Nerve decompression (releasing the entrapped nerve) <br />- Neurectomy (cutting the nerve as a last resort) <br /><br />Demonstration & Stretches for Relief <br />1. Standing Hip Flexor Stretch <br /> - Step one foot back, keep torso upright, and push hips forward. <br /> - Hold 30 sec, repeat 3x daily. <br />2. Avoid Prolonged Sitting - Take breaks every 30 minutes if desk-bound. <br />3. Sleep Position <br /> - Sleep on the unaffected side with a pillow between knees. <br />When to See a doctor? <br />- If pain persists >3 months despite conservative care. <br />- If weakness or muscle atrophy develops (may indicate a different nerve issue). <br />د محمد سامي حسن<br /><br />Al-Mustaqbal University is the first university in Iraq<br /><br />