When the nerves in your legs compress, a tingling sensation occurs as a result. Meralgia paresthetica is the clinical term for the condition that causes the sensory nerves of legs to tighten. Also called "pinched nerves," this condition affects the femoral cutaneous nerves, which provide sensation to the thighs and hips. The Johns Hopkins Medicine website notes that the tingling is primarily felt on the outer thigh and is generally accompanied by a burning sensation and numbness. Repetitive movements, such as those made during exercise, intensify symptoms and might even worsen the nerve damage.
Causes
Rapid weight gain, recent leg surgery, trauma to the leg and restricted blood flow due to illness can cause meralgia paresthetica. This condition also affects pregnant women because it is not uncommon for an unborn baby to lie on the femoral cutaneous nerve while in the womb. Trauma to the pelvic and groin area might also cause this condition. The growth of cysts or tumors in the prostate and uterus can aggravate pelvic nerves, causing this condition as well.
Diagnosis
Primary physicians will generally ask about recent injuries, surgeries or trauma that led to this condition. Initially, doctors might order an X-ray scan to examine your nerves and to detect possible damage. If severe discomfort or pain is present, CT scans, electromyography machines or MRI scanners can detect nerve abnormalities more extensively. Neurologists can also perform nerve conduction studies to evaluate nerve function in your legs.
Treatment
Medications sold over-the-counter containing ibuprofen help alleviate tingling, numbness and discomfort in mild to moderate cases. Wearing loose clothing and flat-heeled shoes also can ease symptoms. In cases of severe damage, physicians might prescribe injections to stop the tingling, numb the pain and reduce nerve inflammation. Prescription strength oral medication is available for discomfort and inflammation as well. In extreme cases, your doctor might ask you to consider undergoing nerve decompression surgery.
Prevention
Maintaining a healthy weight will prevent the onset of meralgia paresthetica, notes the Better Medicine website. Avoid wearing skinny jeans, skin-tight clothing and stiletto-heel shoes. Avoid performing workouts that strain leg muscles extensively, such as leg muscles and leg curls, if you start to feel a slight numbness in your legs. Engage in workouts that increase blood flow throughout your legs and body, such as Pilates and yoga.
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