UMEM Educational Pearls

Title: Meralgia Paresthetica

Category: Orthopedics

Keywords: Meralgia Paresthetica, lateral hip pain (PubMed Search)

Posted: 5/14/2011 by Brian Corwell, MD (Updated: 11/22/2024)
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Meralgia Paresthetica - caused by entrapment of the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve (LFCN)

The LFCN is responsible for sensation of the anteriorlateral thigh.

http://www.chiropractic-help.com/images/Meralgia-Paresthetica.jpg

NOTE* It has no motor component!

Associated with pregnancy, wearing tight pants, belts, girdles, and in diabetic and obese patients.

Symptoms include numbness, paresthesias and pain (not weakness). Worse w walking, standing. Better w sitting.

Diagnosis is clinical but may be confirmed with nerve conduction studies

Treatment includes, NSAIDs, injection and surgery for refractory cases.