What Causes Pain In Upper Leg While Sitting?

Posted on Fri, 3 Apr 2015

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Fri, 3 Apr 2015 Answered on

Mon, 20 Apr 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : pain in upper back of leg when sitting on some chairs and especially when driving in a car

Answered by Dr. Dr. Praveen Tayal (22 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Can be related to nerve compression.

Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Thanks for posting your query.
The pain in the upper back of the leg specifically on sitting can be due to a nerve root compression at the levels of sacrum or coccyx. It is better to sit on a soft cushioned chair and use a doughnut cushion- A cushion with a hole in the middle to sit on.
You can also start with methylcobalamin supplements after consulting your physician. Doing a hot compress in the area can also help.
I hope this answers your query.
In case you have additional questions or doubts, you can forward them to me, and I shall be glad to help you out.
Wishing you good health.
Regards.
Dr. Praveen Tayal.
For future query, you can directly approach me through my profile URL http://bit.ly/Dr-Praveen-Tayal

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Praveen Tayal (2 hours later)

How can we tell if I have a nerve compression? I've had this problem for years when driving in different cars after a period of 1 - two hrs. It' only for about 1 yer now where it starts almost immediately.

Answered by Dr. Dr. Praveen Tayal (5 hours later)

Brief Answer:
MRI scan can detect.

Detailed Answer:
Hello.
Thanks for writing again.
A nerve compression can be detected by an MRI scan of the lumbar and sacral spine. A nerve conduction study will also help in diagnosis.
Hope my answer is helpful.
Do accept my answer in case there are no further queries.
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