Meralgia Paresthetica Injection

Meralgia paresthetica injection is a procedure in which steroid is injected around the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve in order to relieve pain and inflammation. The injection helps to reduce swelling around the nerve and provides temporary relief from the symptoms of meralgia paresthetica.

The procedure is typically performed on an outpatient basis and can be done in a doctor’s office or a clinic. The injection is administered with the help of ultrasound guidance to ensure accuracy and safety.

Benefits of Meralgia Paresthetica Injection

Meralgia paresthetica injection can provide significant relief from the symptoms of this condition. The injection helps to reduce pain, numbness, and tingling in the outer thigh and can improve mobility and quality of life.

It may take several days or weeks for the full effects of the injection to be felt, and multiple injections may be needed to achieve optimal results.

Related Anatomy

The lateral cutaneous nerve of the thigh arises from the outer border of the psoas and crosses over the iliacus. It passes under or through the inguinal ligament, through the femoral fascia, and emerges superficially about a hand’s width distal and in line with the anterior superior iliac spine

See Also: Brachial Plexus Anatomy

Equipment Needed

• Syring: 1 ml
• Needle: Green, 21 gauge / 2 inches (50 mm)
• Kenalog 40: 20 mg
• Total volume: 0.5 ml

Meralgia Paresthetica Injection Technique

• Patient lies supine,
• Identify tender area at the inguinal ligament or at a distal point in the thigh,
• Inject as a bolus around the compressed nerve, avoiding nerve itself.

This entrapment neuropathy can be caused by compression of the lateral cutaneous nerve from obesity, tight underwear, prolonged sitting with a flexed posture (so-called crane driver’s thigh) or pregnancy. Removing the cause is therefore of prime importance, such as losing weight, avoiding tight clothing, or correcting sitting posture. If the patient is pregnant, the compression might be from the growing foetus, and symptoms will normally abate after delivery.

As with other nerve compression injections, the nerve itself must not be injected. If the patient reports increased tingling or burning pain during the procedure, the needle should be moved before the steroid is injected around, not into, the nerve. This lesion often resolves spontaneously. Advice on avoidance of compression and reassurance as to the nature and normal outcome of the condition might be all that is required.

Risks and Side Effects

Meralgia paresthetica injection is generally considered safe, but like any medical procedure, there are risks and potential side effects. Some possible complications include bleeding, infection, and nerve damage.

Common side effects of the injection include soreness, swelling, and bruising at the injection site. More serious side effects, such as allergic reactions, are rare but can occur.

Meralgia paresthetica injection is a safe and effective treatment option for those suffering from the symptoms of this condition. The procedure can provide significant relief from pain, numbness, and tingling in the outer thigh, and can improve overall quality of life.

References & More

1. Injection Techniques in Musculoskeletal Medicine. A Practical Manual for Clinicians in Primary and Secondary Care. Fifth Edition.
2. Coffey R, Gupta V. Meralgia Paresthetica. [Updated 2022 May 12]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2022 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK557735/
3. Grossman MG, Ducey SA, Nadler SS, Levy AS. Meralgia paresthetica: diagnosis and treatment. J Am Acad Orthop Surg. 2001 Sep-Oct;9(5):336-44. doi: 10.5435/00124635-200109000-00007. PMID: 11575913.