If you experience numbness, tingling, or burning pain in your thighs, you may be exhibiting symptoms of meralgia paresthetica. This condition often derives from the compression of the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve running through your pelvic area and groin to the thighs. Swelling, pressure, and trauma trigger meralgia paresthetica and result from hip injuries, repetitive motion, weight gain, and wearing tight clothing.
When you visit us at Jackson Neurosurgery Clinic to seek treatment for this condition, Dr. Lewis injects a local anesthetic along with a steroid during a lateral femoral cutaneous nerve block. This procedure helps to diagnose and treat meralgia paresthetica and thigh pain. Learn more about the benefits of lateral femoral cutaneous nerve block for meralgia paresthetica.
During this 30-minute non-surgical procedure at Jackson Neurosurgery Clinic, you lie in a comfortable position on your back. First, Dr. Lewis cleans the area where he plans to apply the injection. Ultrasound technology helps to determine the appropriate spot. The injection contains a solution of local anesthetic and steroids to reduce inflammation and pain in the area.
While the procedure is routine and considered safe, there are minimal risks that you should consider before your appointment. Possible side effects include the following:
A lateral femoral cutaneous nerve block for meralgia paresthetica can also treat other types of thigh pain.
Some patients report feeling numb or weak around the injection site. Additionally, the anesthetic wears off after a few days and you may have a temporary increase in pain. However, once the steroids kick in, the pain diminishes, and you should feel relief from previous pain levels.
Following the nerve block procedure, you can use ice to reduce swelling and pain in the area. Also, avoid physical exertion for a minimum of 24 hours. Consult with Dr. Lewis before easing back into exercise. If you run a temperature above 101 degrees within the first three days, call us at Jackson Neurosurgery Clinic to let us know right away.
You may respond well to medication such as tricyclic anti-depressants or anti-seizure medication that reduces pain. Dr. Lewis may also suggest making some changes to your diet so that you can lose weight and decrease pressure on the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve. Sometimes, small changes such as wearing looser clothing make a big difference in your pain levels.
Dr. Lewis received his undergraduate degree from Harvard University before completing his medical education and training at Georgetown University and the University of Cincinnati Medical Center. He is a passionate physician and surgeon who belongs to several professional associations, including the American Association of Neurological Surgeons.
Contact the Jackson Neurosurgery Clinic today with questions about a lateral femoral cutaneous nerve block for meralgia paresthetica. Call us at (601) 366-1011. We’ll find a solution that works for you.