Genitofemoral Neuropathy
Genitofemoral neuropathy is caused by damage or dysfunction of the genitofemoral nerve. The genitofemoral nerve is a branch of the lumbar plexus, one of three components of the larger lumbosacral plexus (a network of intersecting nerves in the lower vertebral column). Sitting for long periods of time and bike riding (compression related injuries), trauma and certain medical conditions can be responsible for this type of nerve injury. Damage to the genitofemoral nerve can occur during surgery, or due to trauma of the abdomen or pelvis, which can lead to persistent pain.
Symptoms of Genitofemoral Neuropathy
Neuropathic pain is often described as sharp, shooting, or throbbing. This pelvic nerve pain may be felt in the abdomen, in the lower back, or between the legs. It can be present periodically, or be more persistent. It is commonly felt more strongly when lying down.
What are the Causes of Genitofemoral Neuropathy?
- Metabolic factors: such as high blood glucose, duration of diabetes diagnosis, abnormal blood fat levels and, possibly, low levels of insulin
- Neurovascular Factors: leading to damage to the blood vessels that carry oxygen and nutrients to nerves
- Autoimmune factors, that cause inflammation in nerves
- Mechanical injury
How is Genitofemoral Neuropathy Diagnosed?
- A physical exam, usually consisting of: blood pressure check, heart rate, muscle strength, reflexes, sensitivity to position changes, vibration, temperature or light touch
- Ultrasound
- Electromyography
- Quantitative Sensory Testing
- Nerve or skin biopsy
(Not all evaluations and tests may be necessary)
Genitofemoral Neuropathy Treatment
- Anticonvulsants
- NSAIDS
- Steroid Injections
- Surgical Intervention
We offer ultrasound guided diagnostic injections with local anaesthetic followed by therapeutic injections with cortisone nerve block injections, physiotherapy, acupuncture, active exercises, medication, psychotherapy, biofeedback, and TENS/MET devices for patients who suffer from genitofemoral neuropathy.
sources:
http://www.healthline.com/human-body-maps/genitofemoral-nerve
http://pain.about.com/od/typesofchronicpain/p/genitofemoral.htm
http://pain.about.com/od/typesofchronicpain/a/pelvic_nerve_pain.htm
http://pain.about.com/od/typesofchronicpain/f/surgery_and_pelvic_pain.htm