Twinging Thigh Could Be Pinched Nerve

What is meralgia paresthetica?

Upper leg muscle pain, specifically in the outer thigh, could be a sign of a nerve condition called meralgia paresthetica. This condition causes thigh pain that’s not necessarily a musculoskeletal problem. It occurs when the nerve that supplies feeling to the outer thigh (called the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve) gets compressed.

Causes of nerve compression include:

• Tight clothes: Yes, those super-tight leather pants could actually compress a nerve.
• Injury: A previous injury may create scar tissue that puts pressure on the nerve.
• Disease: Conditions such as diabetes can promote nerve injury.
• Pregnancy: The changes in body shape during pregnancy can cause pressure on the nerve.
• Obesity: Being very overweight can put pressure on the nerve.

If you have symptoms of meralgia paresthetica, see a specialist for an evaluation. He or she will use imaging tests to rule out other medical problems. Treatments include putting away the tight pants for a while, losing weight, and taking mild pain relievers. But if your pain is extreme and persists, a clinician may recommend corticosteroid injections or tricyclic antidepressants.

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