Do You Always Keep Your Phone in Your Pocket? It May Lead to Sore Thighs

A recent case in Hyderabad reveals a surprising cause of thigh pain: a mobile phone resting in a trouser pocket.

Dr. Sudhir Kumar, a neurologist at Apollo Hospitals, shared the case of a 35-year-old man who had been suffering from intolerable burning and pain in his right thigh for three months. Sitting for long hours worsened the pain, especially at night, affecting the patient's work and sleep.

After ruling out other possible causes like diabetes, Dr. Kumar discovered that the man kept his mobile phone in his right trouser pocket for almost 10 hours a day. This led to the diagnosis of meralgia paresthetica, a compression neuropathy of the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve (LFCN), which lies just beneath the skin near the hip bone. The phone applied pressure on this nerve, particularly while sitting.

The patient fully recovered within a month after he stopped keeping his phone in his pocket and took the prescribed medication. Dr. Kumar shared the case on “X,” formerly known as Twitter.

Understanding Meralgia Paresthetica

Meralgia paresthetica, also known as Bernhardt-Roth syndrome, is a neurological condition characterized by numbness, tingling, and burning sensations on the lateral thigh. It occurs when the LFCN is compressed, typically by external sources. Common causes include:

• Tight clothing or belts

• Excess weight or obesity

• Pregnancy

• Carrying heavy items in pockets

• Prolonged standing or sitting

Symptoms are usually one-sided and tend to worsen with activity or prolonged standing. While not life-threatening, the condition can significantly affect quality of life if left untreated.

Prevention and Management Tips

As far as prevention for meralgia paresthetica is concerned:

• Limit pocket time: Do not keep heavy articles, like cell phones, in your pants pockets for extensive periods.

• Wear loose-fitting clothes: Opt for clothing that doesn’t put pressure on your waist or thighs.

• Alternate ways to carry: Use a backpack or holster for personal gadgets. 

• Maintain a healthy weight: Aids in relieving pressure on the nerves, exercised with lots of good food and a balanced diet. 

• Take breaks: For roles that require extensive periods of sitting. Constantly get up for stretches.

Being that you are suffering from persistent thigh pain, consult a medical practitioner to have yourself properly diagnosed and treated.

Final Thought

This case emphasizes how everyday habits—such as where we keep our phones—can lead to unexpected health issues. By being mindful of these habits and making small lifestyle changes, we can significantly reduce the risk of discomfort and conditions like meralgia paresthetica. Stay aware, stay active, and prioritize your well-being to enjoy a pain-free life.

(Input from various media sources)

(Rehash/Muhammad Faisal Arshad/MSM)