Lateral Femoral Cutaneous Neuritis (Meralgia Paresthetica)

Meralgia paresthetica (lateral femoral cutaneous neuritis) is entrapment of the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve under the inguinal ligament, causing burning/numbness/paresthesia over the lateral thigh, without motor deficit. Risk factors: obesity, tight clothing, pregnancy, prolonged standing. Treatment: weight loss, looser clothing, avoid prolonged standing; local injection; rarely decompression surgery.

Common Symptoms

Burning/numbness over lateral thigh; no motor deficit; worse with standing/walking; obesity/tight clothing

Causes and Pathogenesis

Entrapment of the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve at the inguinal ligament causes lateral-thigh sensory disturbance.

Treatment

Weight loss; looser clothing; avoid prolonged standing; local injection; rarely decompression

Preventive Measures

Weight control; looser clothing; avoid prolonged standing.

Department to Visit

It is recommended to visit the Orthopedic Surgery department; an appointment can be booked on this platform before the visit.

Warm reminder: The above information is for health science reference only and cannot replace professional medical diagnosis. If you have related symptoms, please seek medical attention at a regular hospital promptly.