Chiropractors/thigh pain

Advertisement


Question
Hi,

I am a healthy 33 year old female and going on almost 2 months now I have had this dull achy, sometimes throbbing pain in my upper left thigh on the outside.  It almost feels as if my bone is bruised or something.  There is nothing visible there.  If I sit or stand or even lie down for more than fifteen minutes of not moving, it gets really stiff...when I try to stretch it it really hurts.  Last night my son inadvertantly placed his elbow on that area to get himself up from a sitting position and the pain was very excutiating.  I have had no injuries that I am aware of...do you have any ideas.

Answer
Hi Joyce,

It is likely referred pain.  The most likely candidates are 1) a disc protrusion in the middle of your lumbar spine, 2) a condition called Meralgia Paresthetica, and 3) though less likely, bursitis of the hip that is referring to your thigh; though usually 33 year olds don't get this and the bursitis pain will usually be along the side of your hip.   You need to get a physical examination to see which one of these are likely the cause or if there is something else going on.   

'Hope this helps.  

Dr. G

p.s. google meralgia paresthetica...

Chiropractors

All Answers


Answers by Expert:


Ask Experts

Volunteer


Scott F. Gillman, DC, DACBSP

Expertise

21 Years in practice: I can answer any question regarding chiropractic and sports medicine treatment. Mostly, I can help the unknowing public understand what is safe, valid, reasonable and evidence-based, and what kinds of unscrupulous chiropractors and fraudulent methods to stay away from. I have an advanced specialty degree in Chiropractic Sports Medicine. I have experience treating elite and Olympic athletes.

Experience


Experience:

Publications: Education/Credentials:

Education/Credentials
Doctor of Chiropractic Diplomate: American Chiropractic Board of Sports Physicians

©2012 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.