What you may feel
- Burning, numbness or tingling over the front-outer thigh.
- Symptoms are usually one-sided and do not reach the foot.
- Tight clothing, a belt or light skin contact may feel uncomfortable.
- Prolonged standing or walking may increase the pain.
- This sensory nerve problem does not usually cause muscle weakness.
How it is assessed
Assessment checks the sensory area and other back or hip causes. Muscle weakness may suggest a different problem.
Identify the precise areas of pain and numbness and describe the effect of touch. Bring details of other conditions, medicines and previous procedures.
Approaches to care
Care may include reducing pressure from belts or tight clothing and further treatment for persistent pain.
Discuss how pain affects sleep, work and movement. At follow-up, report changes in sensation and strength as well as pain intensity.
When to seek urgent help
Sudden or rapidly increasing weakness, abrupt loss of sensation or new bladder or bowel problems need immediate assessment.
Further reading: Cleveland Clinic
This is educational information and does not replace an individual medical assessment. Similar symptoms alone do not establish a diagnosis.