meralgia paraesthetica

[helena333]

Hi, has anyone had injections for MP? My Dr has suggested this, and says it makes the nerve involved feel tingly, helping to stop pain signals getting through to brain, not exactly electrical nerve stimulation, but a similar feeling. I'd be greatful for any input.

[helena333]

Hi thanks for your feedback. My dr will not consider surgery, as he says it would only be considered if I had a terminal illness, which limited my lifespan.He said that initially the pain would be releived, but then could be considerably worse, so for the longterm all he is prepared to do, is to inject, some steroid+unknown (by me) alongside the nerve,which will initially make my legs a bit more wobbly than they already are!! and then act a bit like a tens does, and make the nerve feel like it is buzzing, where the iguinial nerve is trapped, and stop the pain signal reaching my brain.Trouble is last time I had injections in this area, he hit a nerve, and I couldn't lift my leg at all---totally numb round hip, worried this might happen again, just wondered if anyone knew more about this. take care, carole.

[Tuckamore]

Hi Again,

I don't know where my mind is some days and I apologize. I did not research MP until after I looked at your heading....SORRY.

For our members, the term meralgia paraesthetica comprises four Greek roots, which together denote "thigh pain involving anomalous perception." I was able to find that this can become a chronic painful condition and in some cases, numbness will persist despite treatment. In severe cases a local nerve block can be done at the inguinal ligament using a combination of local anaesthetic (lidocaine) and corticosteroids to give relief that may last several weeks. Pain modifier drugs for neuralgic pain such as amitriptyline, carbamazepine or gabapentin are often tried but this can be difficult to treat.  Surgery is advised when all other treatments fail but leaves you with permanent numbness in the leg.

I did not realize until I read it that this was my diagnosis some 18 years ago though mine was due to a MVA. (Again I don't know where my mind is sometimes.)  I chose NOT to have the surgery. I later learned that the diagnosis was incorrect and have since been treated and am being treated for the condition that caused the leg pain.

But back to you. Read all you can about the injection, once you learn what they are injecting and where. Than you can make an educated and informed decision. If there are no major permanent side effects than I would certainly strongly consider it. Obviously you are in pain and if injections provide some relief it should be investigated.

Again I am sorry I did not read better. Please let us know how you are doing and take care, Tuck

[Tuckamore]

Hi Helena,

I am sorry to hear about your pain. We know how miserable it can make your life. However I am not certain what you mean. MP? Sorry Are you talking about a steroid injection? I do know that steroid injections can reduce the inflammation of the nerves and surrounding tissue, therefore the end results should be improvement in your pain.

If this is not what you are referring to please let us know. Peace, Tuck