Question
Dear Dr. Tsatsos,

For the past 3 months, I have suffered from persistent pain in my right thigh. It feels quite deep, is made worse by carrying a moderate load (i.e. 30lbs in a backpack). Sometimes it hurts when I am simply walking, sometimes not. When I lie down straight, the pain is made worse, and I often have to shift my legs while sitting down- there doesn't seem to be any one sitting position where the pain is fully alleviated over a long period of time. Stretching/yoga does not alleviate the pain, nor do any typical drugs (aspirin/acetaminophen/ibuprofen). Rubbing vigorously with sports cream also has no effect.
Some things to consider:
1.I have suffered from 'pins and needles'/a feeling of numbness in this exact area (but never pain) for the past 10 years, probably due to a pinched nerve of some sort ( but never diagnosed).

2. After a inguinal hernia 2 years ago, I gained 60 lbs (from a base ideal weight). The big change in my life this year is that I have lost 30lbs (in about 4 months) due to exercise. Could that contribute have contributed to the problem?

3. The pain has been accompanied by general weakness (not the dull thigh pain) in my knees. Not only is running out of the question, but lifting (squats/dead lifts, etc.) is also harder to do.

4. When this first came about, I thought that I had strained something from over exercise. But, after having taken it easy now for 2 months (and not having gained the wight back)- the thigh pain continues. This is worrisome. I know self-diagnosis can lead to unnecessary worry, and in this case I fear a blood clot in my leg. But, I do not have the symptoms- no redness or warmth tot the touch, it is outwardly normal.

5. I am 32 years old, and otherwise healthy. I still walk a lot every day/do push ups etc., non smoker/moderate drinker.

At any rate, I plan on seeing an orthopedist, but would like some help in figuring out what this is, and how I can get rid of it. Is an ultrasound better than an MRI in this case? Which, if either, should I ask for? Do you have any idea what this may be? Any help would deb much appreciated.

John

Answer
Dear John,

This Orthopedic Chicago Podiatrist located in West Loop 60661,Roscoe Village 60618, Ukranian Village 60622, Elmhurst 60126 & Bartlett 60103 says...

The orthopedist should be able to diagnose the issue.Sounds like a pinched nerve & this may also produce most of the sensations you are describing.
The symptoms are not of a blood clot.

The Chicago Podiatrists of AnkleNFootCenters.com are specialists in orthopedics and sports medicine.
We are located in Chicago & Elmhurst

Dr George Tsatsos, Svetlana Zats, Dr Mariano Rivera, Dr Massard & Dr Kurtz
Podiatrist Chicago 60618 & 60622. Elmhurst 60126 Podiatrists
Board Certified in Foot and Ankle Surgery & Orthopedics
New South Loop Location-Chicago 60661


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