Ilioinguinal neuralgia is a condition characterized by chronic pain along the path of the ilioinguinal nerve. This nerve originates from the lumbar plexus, specifically the first lumbar nerve (L1), and supplies sensation to the lower abdominal wall, the groin, and the upper inner thigh.
Causes
- Surgical Trauma: It often occurs after abdominal or pelvic surgery, such as hernia repair.
- Direct Trauma: Injury to the nerve due to blunt trauma.
- Compression: Compression by nearby structures, such as tumors or swollen lymph nodes.
Symptoms
- Pain: Sharp, burning, or stabbing pain in the lower abdomen, groin, or upper inner thigh.
- Numbness: Reduced sensation or tingling in the affected area.
- Hypersensitivity: Increased sensitivity to touch or pressure in the nerve’s distribution area.
Diagnosis
- Clinical Evaluation: Based on history and physical examination.
- Imaging: MRI or ultrasound may be used to identify the cause.
- Nerve Block: Diagnostic nerve blocks can help confirm the diagnosis by temporarily relieving pain.
Treatment
- Medications: Anti-inflammatory drugs, pain relievers, and nerve pain medications.
- Nerve Blocks: Local anesthetic injections to provide temporary relief or as diagnostic block followed by pulsed radiofrequency for long term relief.
- Physical Therapy: Exercises and techniques to reduce pain and improve function.
- Surgery: In severe cases, surgical intervention might be needed to decompress or sever the nerve.
Managing ilioinguinal neuralgia often requires a multidisciplinary approach, involving pain specialists, and sometimes surgeons.
