MERALGIA PARAESTHETICA Meaning and
Definition
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Meralgia paraesthetica is a medical condition characterized by the sensation of tingling, numbness, or burning pain in the outer thigh. Also known as Bernhardt-Roth syndrome, it is a type of mononeuropathy involving the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve (LFCN), which supplies sensation to the skin on the front and outer side of the thigh.
Typically, meralgia paraesthetica presents with symptoms on one side of the body, with the affected thigh being more frequently involved. The condition is often caused by compression or entrapment of the LFCN as it passes through the inguinal ligament, a fibrous band located in the groin. Common causes of compression include weight gain, tight clothing, obesity, pregnancy, scar tissue formation, or injury.
Symptoms of meralgia paraesthetica can vary from mild discomfort to severe pain. The condition is frequently aggravated by standing or walking and may improve with rest or changes in body position. While it does not usually result in long-term complications or permanent nerve damage, it can significantly impact an individual's quality of life by causing discomfort, sleep disturbances, or limitations in physical activities.
Treatment for meralgia paraesthetica depends on the severity of symptoms and their impact on daily life. Typically, conservative approaches are utilized first, including weight loss, wearing loose and non-restrictive clothing, analgesic medications, or physical therapy exercises. In more severe cases, nerve blocks or surgical interventions may be recommended to relieve pressure on the nerve and alleviate symptoms. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate management of meralgia paraesthetica.
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Bernhardt's disease, tingling, formication, itching, and other forms of paresthesia in the outer side of the lower part of the thigh in the area of distribution of the external cutaneous branch of the femoral nerve; there may be pain, but the skin is usually hypesthetic to the touch.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for MERALGIA PARAESTHETICA
- neralgia paraesthetica
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Etymology of MERALGIA PARAESTHETICA
The term "meralgia paraesthetica" is of Greek and Latin origin.
The word "meralgia" comes from the ancient Greek words "meros" meaning "thigh" and "algos" meaning "pain", referring to the pain experienced in the thigh region.
The term "paraesthetica" is derived from the Latin word "paraesthetice" which means "abnormal sensation" or "tingling" and is derived from the Greek word "paraisthanai" meaning "to feel or suffer alongside".
Together, "meralgia paraesthetica" describes a condition characterized by pain or abnormal sensations in the outer side of the thigh, caused by compression or irritation of the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve.
