G57.10 Meralgia paresthetica, unspecified lower limb

ICD10CM code

#### Name of the Condition
- Common name(s): Meralgia Paresthetica
- Technical term: Lateral Femoral Cutaneous Nerve Entrapment

#### Summary
- Meralgia Paresthetica is a condition characterized by tingling, numbness, and burning pain in the outer thigh. It occurs when the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve—a sensory nerve supplying the skin on this area—becomes compressed or trapped.

#### Causes
- Causes of Meralgia Paresthetica often include obesity, tight clothing, pregnancy, scar tissue near the inguinal ligament, or repetitive movements involving the leg. In some instances, trauma or injury near the pelvis can lead to this nerve compression.

#### Risk Factors
- Obesity, diabetes, and wearing tight clothing can increase the risk. It is also more common in pregnant individuals or those who frequently wear heavy belts, such as police officers or construction workers.

#### Symptoms
- Patients typically experience pain, numbness, tingling, and burning sensations on the outer part of the thigh. These symptoms may vary from mild discomfort to severe pain.

#### Diagnosis
- Diagnosis is primarily based on a clinical examination and the patient's history. In some cases, nerve conduction studies, MRI, or ultrasound imaging may be useful to rule out other causes of the symptoms.

#### Treatment Options
- **Conservative Treatment:** Weight loss, avoiding tight clothing, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may alleviate symptoms.
- **Physical Therapy:** Exercises to strengthen and stabilize the pelvis can be beneficial.
- **Surgical Options:** In rare cases where conservative treatments fail, surgery to relieve nerve pressure may be considered.

#### Prognosis and Follow-Up
- Many individuals experience symptom relief with appropriate lifestyle changes and conservative treatment. Regular follow-up is essential to monitor progress and prevent recurrence.

#### Complications
- If left untreated, severe cases may lead to persistent pain and discomfort. However, it rarely results in permanent damage.

#### Lifestyle & Prevention
- Maintain a healthy weight, wear loose-fitting clothing, and avoid standing or walking for extended periods to prevent or reduce symptoms.

#### When to Seek Professional Help
- Immediate medical attention should be sought if experiencing severe pain, a noticeable increase in symptoms, or if symptoms affect mobility or daily activities.

#### Additional Resources
- For further information, consult organizations like the American Academy of Neurology ([AAN](https://www.aan.com)) or the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke ([NINDS](https://www.ninds.nih.gov)).

#### Tips for Medical Coders
- Ensure specificity by noting if the condition is unilateral or bilateral, if known. Avoid common errors such as confusing with other neuropathies by verifying the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve involvement.

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