Version July 2025
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What is meralgia paresthetica? —
This is a condition that causes pain, tingling, and numbness in the outer thigh. It happens when a nerve in that area gets squeezed or compressed.
Different things can cause meralgia paresthetica. They include pregnancy, wearing tight belts or waistbands, leaning the thigh on something for a long time, and injury to the area. Sometimes, it can happen after surgery in the area.
Meralgia paresthetica is more common in people who have diabetes or obesity, and in older people. It is not a serious condition, and it usually goes away on its own.
What are the symptoms of meralgia paresthetica? —
The main symptoms involve the upper, outer thigh. They can include:
●Pain – This can be burning or stinging.
●Tingling – This can feel like "pins and needles" in the area.
●Numbness
●Feeling extra sensitive to touch – Even light touch, like the feeling of clothing on the skin, might be unpleasant.
●Itching
Symptoms usually affect only 1 of the thighs.
Will I need tests? —
Your doctor should be able to tell if you have meralgia paresthetica by learning about your symptoms and doing a "neurologic exam." In this exam, the doctor checks how your brain, nerves, and muscles are working.
Sometimes, doctors do other tests to make sure that something else is not causing your symptoms. This is more likely if you have any symptoms that are different from the ones listed above. Other tests might include:
●MRI of the spine – This is a type of imaging test. It creates pictures of the inside of your body.
●Nerve conduction studies or electromyography – These check how well your nerves and muscles are working.
How is meralgia paresthetica treated? —
It usually goes away on its own within a few weeks or months. If your symptoms bother you, it might help to:
●Avoid wearing tight belts or clothing with a tight waistband. These can put pressure on the nerve that runs from your lower spine to your thigh.
●Try to keep a healthy body weight. Your doctor or nurse can talk to you about ways to lose weight if needed.
●Take pain-relieving medicines such as acetaminophen (brand name: Tylenol) or ibuprofen (sample brand names: Advil, Motrin).
If your symptoms last for longer than 1 or 2 months, tell your doctor or nurse. They might suggest trying other treatments, such as pain medicines or a shot of medicine to numb the area. Sometimes, surgery is recommended for people with severe symptoms, but this is rare.
