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Meralgia Paraesthetica

Checked: 23-11-2019 by Rob Adams Next Review: 23-11-2020

Overview

Please see the useful summary article:

Meralgia Paraesthetica

Who to Refer

Most cases are self limiting and conservative management in primary care is often all that is required.

Referral should be considered for patients with severe pain that is not responding to conservative measures.

Before Referral

Diagnosis is usually made on clinical grounds.

Investigations to consider include:

  • Fasting glucose/HbA1c to rule out diabetes.
  • USS and guided injection may be helpful in establishing diagnosis and treating symptoms (can be requested on ICE).
  • Nerve conduction studies may be useful in some circumstances.
  • MRI to rule out other causes if suspected.

Services

Consider referral to MSK Physiotherapy services which may help supporting management.

Consider referral requesting USS guided injection (via ICE) if available locally.

Consider referral to Pain Services if symptoms are severe and cannot be managed in primary care and referral criteria are met.



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