Injury of femoral nerve at hip and thigh level, left leg digital illustration

Injury of femoral nerve at hip and thigh level, left leg Save


ICD-10 code: S74.12

Chapter: Injury, poisoning and certain other consequences of external causes

Injury of femoral nerve at hip and thigh level, left leg

An injury of the femoral nerve at the hip and thigh level can cause significant pain, weakness and loss of sensation in the left leg. The femoral nerve is one of the largest nerves in the body and runs from the lumbar spine down the front of the thigh to the knee. It is responsible for controlling the muscles that move the hip and knee and for providing sensation to the front of the thigh and lower leg.

There are several potential causes of femoral nerve injury, including trauma, compression, and disease. A traumatic injury, such as a fall or car accident, can damage the nerve directly. Compression of the nerve can occur from prolonged pressure on the nerve, such as from prolonged sitting or wearing tight clothing. Certain diseases, such as diabetes or multiple sclerosis, can also damage the nerve.

Symptoms of an injury to the femoral nerve can vary depending on the severity and location of the injury. Common symptoms include pain or numbness in the front of the thigh or lower leg, weakness in the leg, difficulty standing or walking, and loss of sensation in the affected area.

  1. Rest and immobilization: Resting the affected leg and limiting movement can help reduce pain and prevent further damage to the nerve. Immobilization with a brace or splint may also be necessary to support the leg and prevent further injury.
  2. Physical therapy: Once the acute pain and inflammation have subsided, physical therapy can help to strengthen the muscles and improve range of motion in the affected leg.
  3. Pain management: Over-the-counter pain medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help to manage pain. In some cases, prescription pain medication or nerve blocks may be necessary to provide relief.
  4. Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to repair the damaged nerve. This may involve decompression of the nerve or nerve grafting to repair the damaged area.

If you are experiencing symptoms of femoral nerve injury, it is important to seek medical attention promptly. Early diagnosis and treatment can help to prevent further damage and improve the chances of a successful recovery.

Overall, an injury to the femoral nerve at the hip and thigh level can be a painful and debilitating condition. However, with proper treatment and care, it is possible to manage symptoms and restore function to the affected leg.