Question
For the past couple of days when I go to sleep in the middle of the night or when I lay down I get this sharp pain on the side and in the back of my thigh. It comes when I turn to switch positions. The pain goes down my leg as well. Is this a pinched nerve?  

Answer
Hi Crystal and thanks for writing,

It's really hard for me to guess over the Internet so if it keeps bothering you I'd suggest you go see your doctor.

If I had to guess though, if the pain is higher up, like from the middle of your buttock, then I'd guess it's maybe Sciatica. If the pain is lower down, then I'd guess maybe a muscle spasm or something pressing on a nerve in your lower back. Generally nerve pain can run up or down the limb, and it often is associated with numbness or tingling (the limb falling asleep), and the pain is often described as burning.

Try taking some Ibuprofen, and if it really bothers you, hold a bag of frozen peas or corn on it to numb he pain.

Hope this helps, Happy New Year,

Margot