Right Thigh Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help - Family Medicine

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Right thigh pain?


A week ago, I suddenly felt soreness in my right thigh and the area of my right buttock, which sometimes makes it difficult to walk.
However, I don't feel pain when lying down to sleep.
Could this be caused by poor posture, osteoporosis, or possibly related to my kidneys? Additionally, my vision has also been deteriorating rapidly and becoming quite blurry.
If I need to go to the hospital for an examination, which department should I see? Thank you.

A ya, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/02/15

Dr. Huang Jianling reply Family Medicine


Hello, online friend: You may be experiencing sciatica, and it is recommended to seek further examination from an orthopedic or neurosurgery specialist.
Typically, the pain radiates from the buttocks down the side or back of the leg, and may even extend to the foot and toes.
In addition to pain, there are often sensations of numbness, weakness, swelling, or coldness.
These discomforts frequently worsen with walking or lifting heavy objects and are often related to posture.
Common causes of sciatica include: 1.
Herniated disc 2.
Lumbar spondylolisthesis, lumbar arthritis, and lumbar stenosis 3.
Localized compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve, such as from a local tumor or piriformis syndrome 4.
Patients with myofascial pain syndrome may also experience pain similar to sciatica.
Vision issues are also quite common, and it is advisable to consult an ophthalmologist for further examination.
Sincerely, Dr.
Huang Jianling, Family Medicine, Taoyuan Hospital, Department of Health, Executive Yuan.

Reply Date: 2004/02/15

More Info


Understanding right thigh pain can be complex, as it may stem from various causes, including musculoskeletal issues, nerve problems, or even referred pain from internal organs. Given your symptoms of sudden onset pain in the right thigh and buttock area, it’s essential to consider several potential causes.

1. Musculoskeletal Causes: The most common reason for thigh pain is related to muscle strain or injury. If you've recently engaged in activities that involve heavy lifting, prolonged sitting, or unusual physical exertion, this could lead to muscle soreness or strain. Poor posture, especially if you sit for long periods, can also contribute to discomfort in the thigh and buttock area.
2. Nerve Issues: Conditions such as sciatica, where the sciatic nerve is compressed or irritated, can cause pain that radiates from the lower back down through the thigh and into the leg. This pain can be exacerbated by certain positions or movements, and it may be less noticeable when lying down.

3. Joint Problems: Hip joint issues, such as arthritis or bursitis, can also lead to pain in the thigh and buttock area. These conditions often present with stiffness and pain that can worsen with activity.

4. Referred Pain: Sometimes, pain in the thigh can be referred from other areas, such as the lower back or even the kidneys. Given your mention of poor vision and sudden changes in eyesight, it’s crucial to consider whether there could be a systemic issue at play, although this is less common.

5. Bone Health: Osteoporosis or other bone-related issues can lead to pain, particularly in older adults. If you have risk factors for osteoporosis, such as a family history or prolonged inactivity, this could be a consideration.

Given the complexity of your symptoms and the fact that they have impacted your mobility, it is advisable to seek medical attention. You should consider visiting a healthcare provider who specializes in musculoskeletal disorders, such as an orthopedic specialist or a physical medicine and rehabilitation physician. They can perform a thorough evaluation, which may include a physical examination and imaging studies like X-rays or MRI, to determine the underlying cause of your pain.

Additionally, if you experience any of the following symptoms, you should seek immediate medical attention:
- Severe pain that does not improve with rest or over-the-counter pain medications.

- Swelling or redness in the thigh area.

- Numbness or weakness in the leg.

- Changes in bowel or bladder function.

In summary, while your thigh pain could be due to various factors, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional to obtain an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Early intervention can help prevent further complications and improve your quality of life.

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