Inner Thigh Numbness: Causes and When to Seek Help

Q: Inner Thigh Numbness: Causes and When to Seek Help

Hello： Based on your description, there may be a possibility of a muscle strain or sprain, which could temporarily lead to peripheral nerve injury. <br>It is recommended to rest more and avoid vigorous exercise. <br>You can observe the situation for about 1-2 months, and if sympt

Numbness in the inner thigh of the left leg?

Hello Doctor: I would like to ask about my condition.
Last month, I initially experienced pain in my right lower back, which then shifted to the upper back (around the scapula) after about a week.
Four days later, the pain transitioned to my left lower back.
The left lower back pain showed signs of improvement after about three days.
During this period of improvement, I began to experience numbness in the inner side of my left thigh, which has persisted for approximately three weeks now.
The numbness in my left thigh does not interfere with my daily activities, but it feels as if there is a layer covering it.
When it itches, I try to scratch it but can never reach the itchy spot (similar to the sensation of something covering the inner side of my left thigh, where I can only scratch the surface).
I would like to ask the doctor what might be causing these symptoms and which specialty I should consult.
I hope my description of the situation is sufficient for your assessment.
Thank you for your guidance.

A He, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/06/03

Dr. Hong Weibin reply Neurology

Hello: Based on your description, there may be a possibility of a muscle strain or sprain, which could temporarily lead to peripheral nerve injury.
It is recommended to rest more and avoid vigorous exercise.
You can observe the situation for about 1-2 months, and if symptoms do not improve, seek evaluation from a neurologist.

Reply Date: 2022/06/03

More Info

Inner thigh numbness can be a perplexing symptom and may arise from various underlying causes. Given your description of the progression of your symptoms—from right side lower back pain to upper back pain, then to left side lower back pain, and finally to numbness in the left inner thigh—there are several potential explanations to consider.

One possible cause of your symptoms could be related to nerve compression or irritation. The lumbar spine, where your initial pain began, houses nerves that branch out to various parts of the lower body, including the thighs. Conditions such as a herniated disc, spinal stenosis, or sciatica can lead to nerve compression, which may manifest as pain in the back and numbness or tingling in the legs. The fact that your symptoms have shifted from one area to another suggests that there may be an underlying issue affecting the nerves in your lumbar region.

Another potential cause could be related to muscle tension or strain. If you have been compensating for pain in one area, it could lead to muscle tightness in another, which may affect nerve function. Additionally, prolonged sitting or certain postures can contribute to nerve compression, particularly in the pelvic region, which could explain the numbness in your inner thigh.

It is also worth considering vascular issues, although they are less common. Poor circulation or vascular compression can lead to numbness or tingling sensations. However, since you mentioned that the numbness does not significantly affect your daily activities, this may be less likely.

Given that your symptoms have persisted for three weeks, it is advisable to seek medical attention. A healthcare professional, particularly a neurologist or an orthopedic specialist, would be well-suited to evaluate your condition. They may recommend imaging studies, such as an MRI or CT scan, to assess for any structural abnormalities in your spine or pelvis. Additionally, a physical examination can help determine if there are any signs of nerve involvement or muscle weakness.

In the meantime, it may be beneficial to practice good posture, engage in gentle stretching exercises, and avoid positions that exacerbate your symptoms. If you experience any worsening of your symptoms, such as increased pain, weakness in the legs, or changes in bowel or bladder function, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention.

In summary, inner thigh numbness can stem from various causes, including nerve compression, muscle strain, or vascular issues. Given the complexity of your symptoms and their duration, consulting with a specialist is the best course of action to obtain an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Remember, early intervention can often lead to better outcomes, so do not hesitate to seek help.

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