If you experience severe numbness and tingling in your thighs after running, you likely suffer from meralgia paresthetica, a medical condition that causes nerve compression. Meralgia paresthetica affects the outer thigh by damaging the femoral nerve, which gives the thighs sensation. When this nerve becomes damaged, tingling, burning, numbness and shooting pains erupt in the thigh area. Physical activities, such as running, exacerbate symptoms.
Meralgia Paresthetica Causes
Excessive weight gain, leg surgeries, leg trauma and restricted blood flow to the leg due to illness such as diabetes cause this condition. Strenuous exercising causes meralgia paresthetica as well. Pregnant women often suffer from this condition when the baby lies in a position that causes trauma nerves in the pelvic area. John Hopkins Medicine notes that leg numbness, burning and tingling can occur in the pelvic or thigh region of patients with meralgia paresthetica.
Diagnosis
Primary doctors generally refer patients with nerve damage to a neurologist. The neurologist administers an exam and performs a series of clinical tests and procedures to detect damage to thigh nerves. Before examining you, your doctor may inquire about surgeries, trauma or injuries that caused this nerve damage. CT scanners, X-ray and MRI machines are typically used to detect nerve abnormalities. Nerve conduction studies are another option for evaluating the function of thigh nerves.
Treatments
Over-the-counter medications containing ibuprofen alleviate symptoms and discomfort in mild to moderate cases. Low-heeled shoes and loose clothing also ease symptoms of meralgia paresthetica. In severe cases, doctors may suggest a series of nerve injections to reduce nerve inflammation and to eliminate pain. If severe pain persists, your physician may recommend nerve decompression surgery.
Prevention
Avoid wearing tight-fitting pants or jeans, which can cause meralgia paresthetica or worsen its symptoms. MayoClinic.com suggests maintaining a healthy weight to keep this condition from developing. Engage in workouts that regulate or increase the blood flow through your legs, such as yoga, to decrease your chances of developing meralgia paresthetica. Avoid exercises that strain your leg muscles excessively, such as lunges.
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