G57.13 Meralgia paresthetica, bilateral lower limbs

ICD10CM code

#### Name of the Condition
- Common Name: Meralgia Paresthetica
- Medical Term: Lateral Femoral Cutaneous Nerve Entrapment, Bilateral Lower Limbs

#### 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 is compressed, usually in the groin area.

#### Causes
- The condition is commonly caused by the compression of the nerve due to tight clothing, obesity, pregnancy, or trauma.
- Prolonged standing or walking may also contribute to symptoms.

#### Risk Factors
- Obesity
- Diabetes
- Pregnancy
- Wearing tight belts or clothing
- Previous injury to the hip or groin area

#### Symptoms
- Tingling and numbness in the outer thigh
- Burning pain on the surface of the outer part of the thigh
- Symptoms usually affect both thighs in the case of bilateral presentation

#### Diagnosis
- Physical examination focusing on identifying sensory changes in the thigh region
- Patient history to identify potential causes of nerve compression
- Electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies to rule out other nerve conditions
- Imaging, such as MRI or CT, may be done to visualize any causes of compression

#### Treatment Options
- **Conservative Management**: Weight loss, avoiding tight clothing, and posture correction can relieve symptoms.
- **Medications**: Pain relief through NSAIDs or other pain management medications.
- **Physical Therapy**: Exercises to strengthen and stretch the muscles around the hip may help.
- **Surgical Intervention**: In rare cases where conservative treatments fail, surgery to relieve the compression may be necessary.

#### Prognosis and Follow-Up
- The prognosis is generally good with appropriate lifestyle modifications and treatment.
- Regular follow-ups may be required to monitor symptoms and adjust treatment if necessary.

#### Complications
- If untreated, chronic pain and persistent numbness may occur, impacting quality of life.
- Rarely, muscle weakness may develop due to continued nerve compression.

#### Lifestyle & Prevention
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Wear loose-fitting clothing around the waist and thighs.
- Take regular breaks to move around if you sit or stand for long periods.

#### When to Seek Professional Help
- Seek immediate medical attention if symptoms suddenly worsen or if muscle weakness develops.
- Persistent or worsening pain despite lifestyle changes and treatments.

#### Additional Resources
- American Academy of Neurology (AAN)
- Peripheral Nerve Society
- Meralgia Paresthetica Support Groups

#### Tips for Medical Coders
- Ensure bilateral symptoms are clearly documented for correct coding as G57.13.
- Verify that compression is recorded as affecting both lower limbs, as unilateral cases will have a different ICD code.

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