Conditions affecting the femoral nerve—whether due to inflammation, entrapment, or overuse—can produce a variety of symptoms. These typically may include some of the following:
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Pain:
- Often localised in the anterior thigh and groin.
- May radiate along the nerve’s pathway, sometimes extending to the medial aspect of the leg (especially if the saphenous nerve is involved).
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Sensory Changes:
- Numbness, tingling, or a burning sensation in the anterior thigh.
- Altered sensation along the medial leg and possibly the knee.
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Muscle Weakness:
- Reduced strength in the quadriceps muscles, which can lead to difficulties with knee extension.
- Challenges with activities such as climbing stairs, rising from a seated position, or walking.
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Reflex Changes:
- A diminished or absent patellar (knee-jerk) reflex may be observed.
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Gait Abnormalities:
- Due to weakness and altered sensation, some individuals may develop an abnormal gait or experience instability.
The symptoms can vary in severity depending on the specific underlying cause and the extent of nerve involvement. If symptoms are present, a clinical evaluation is recommended to determine the precise cause and to guide appropriate treatment.
