Joe A Shaw PA-C - 1/27/2008

Question
I磛e been suffering for some months with mild numbness on the skin surface aound the hip area, and a burning pain there if pressure is applied to a particular spot.  Had a blood test with my family doctor to eliminate rheumatism, which reassured me.  Lately however I磛e noticed at night that it磗 very difficult to find a position to sleep in, as on both sides my hip joints start to ache after a short time.  Otherwise, I磎 not experiencing any pain/problems with the hip joints at all - no pain during the day or impediment of movement. Any ideas?

Answer
Teri,
There is an uncommon condition known as meralgia paresthetica which presents with pain, hypersensitivity, burning, tingling and/or parathesias along the outside portion of your hips and thighs. The cause is unknown, but direct pressure or constriction of the lateral femoral nerve at its exit into the thigh is thought to play a role. It is sometimes seen in obese pts or those who wear tight corsets or undergarments.
Treatment is wt loss and avoid constricting garments. Sometimes an injection of local anesthetic may help.

Another uncommon condition is avascular necrosis of the hip. ( where the blood supply to the femoral head is dying) It occurs in the 30-50 yr old group, males more than females. The cause is unknown. The onset is gradual bilateral hip pain, then slight limp. Joint motion becomes progressively restricted.