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What Causes Pain In Thigh Radiating To Leg When I Lay Down?
Question: When I lay down, I have constant pain that radiates from my thigh, all the way down my left leg. It makes it almost impossible to sleep at night. Nothing I do gives any relief. I also have some tingling and weakness in that leg, so when i walk, it makes it difficult. I am not diabetic.
Brief Answer:
I think you need more evaluation....
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
I understand pain that disturbs sleep is definitely concerning. Radiating pain is mostly associated with radiculopathy - nerve compression at spinal root. Though unremarkable MRI lumbosacral spine is a good sign, I am unhappy because it means we need to explore further to identify the cause. In this context, I will suggest the following line of approach.
1. The first priority is to visit a neurosurgeon for a careful neurological examination of the affected limb. Should there be definitive clinical signs of weakness and reduced / brisk deep tendon reflexes, I will recommend a repeat MRI lumbosacral spine and EMG / NCV studies.
2. While radiculopathy is being investigated, I will also wish to record your peripheral pulses. Vascular obstruction is also one of the leading causes of limb pain.
3. Beside aforementioned tests, it would also be worthwhile to look for vitamin deficiency, mineral deficiency, anemia as well as thyroid disorders.
4. If all tests are negative, possibility of restless leg may be considered and treated.
In my opinion the following possibility should be considered before starting neurotrophic drugs which has helped many patients with similar pain.
Discuss with your treating doctors and perhaps ask for a neurosurgeon referral.
Hope this helped. Let me know if you need clarifications.
Regards
I think you need more evaluation....
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
I understand pain that disturbs sleep is definitely concerning. Radiating pain is mostly associated with radiculopathy - nerve compression at spinal root. Though unremarkable MRI lumbosacral spine is a good sign, I am unhappy because it means we need to explore further to identify the cause. In this context, I will suggest the following line of approach.
1. The first priority is to visit a neurosurgeon for a careful neurological examination of the affected limb. Should there be definitive clinical signs of weakness and reduced / brisk deep tendon reflexes, I will recommend a repeat MRI lumbosacral spine and EMG / NCV studies.
2. While radiculopathy is being investigated, I will also wish to record your peripheral pulses. Vascular obstruction is also one of the leading causes of limb pain.
3. Beside aforementioned tests, it would also be worthwhile to look for vitamin deficiency, mineral deficiency, anemia as well as thyroid disorders.
4. If all tests are negative, possibility of restless leg may be considered and treated.
In my opinion the following possibility should be considered before starting neurotrophic drugs which has helped many patients with similar pain.
Discuss with your treating doctors and perhaps ask for a neurosurgeon referral.
Hope this helped. Let me know if you need clarifications.
Regards
Note: For further queries, consult a joint and bone specialist, an Orthopaedic surgeon. Book a Call now.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
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