NINDS Meralgia Paresthetica Disease Information Page

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NINDS Meralgia Paresthetica Disease Information Page
Synonym(s): Bernhardt-Roth Syndrome, Lateral Femoral Cutaneous Nerve Entrapment
Reviewed 01-28-2003

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Table of Contents (click to jump to sections)

What is Meralgia Paresthetica?
Is there any treatment?
What is the prognosis?
What research is being done?

Organizations

What is Meralgia Paresthetica?
Meralgia paresthetica is a disorder characterized by tingling, numbness, and burning pain in the outer side of the thigh. The disorder is caused by compression of the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve as it exits the pelvis. It more commonly occurs in men than women, and is generally found in middle-aged or overweight individuals. People with the disorder frequently report that it appears or worsens after walking or standing. The skin is often sensitive to touch. Meralgia paresthetica is associated with clothing that is too tight, pregnancy, diabetes, and obesity.

Is there any treatment?
Treatment for meralgia paresthetica is symptomatic and supportive and usually involves wearing looser clothing, weight reduction, and avoiding prolonged standing or walking. Gabapentin and other medications may alleviate symptoms. In very few cases in which pain is persistent or severe, surgical intervention may be indicated. In some cases, the disorder may spontaneously disappear.

What is the prognosis?
Meralgia paresthetica usually eases or disappears after treatment. Surgical intervention is not always fully successful.

What research is being done?
Within the NINDS research programs, meralgia paresthetica is addressed primarily through studies associated with pain research. NINDS vigorously pursues a research program seeking new treatments for pain and nerve damage with the ultimate goal of reversing these debilitating conditions.

Select this link to view a list of all studies currently seeking patients.

Organizations

National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD)
P.O. Box 1968
(55 Kenosia Avenue)
Danbury, CT 06813-1968
orphan@rarediseases.org
http://www.rarediseases.org
Tel: 203-744-0100 Voice Mail 800-999-NORD (6673)
Fax: 203-798-2291

NINDS health-related material is provided for information purposes only and does not necessarily represent endorsement by or an official position of the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke or any other Federal agency. Advice on the treatment or care of an individual patient should be obtained through consultation with a physician who has examined that patient or is familiar with that patient's medical history.

All NINDS-prepared information is in the public domain and may be freely copied. Credit to the NINDS or the NIH is appreciated.

Provided by:
The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
National Institutes of Health
Bethesda, MD 20892

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