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Persistent Numbness in Outer Thigh After Travel

6/19/2025, 10:30:42 AMMale25-34

Following a lengthy 10-hour journey by bus, I, a 23-year-old female, began to experience numbness in the outer portion of my thigh. The sensation felt akin to that of a limb that has fallen asleep. To my concern, this numbness has persisted for three days without any signs of improvement. In the past, I encountered similar symptoms of tingling and numbness in my ring and pinky fingers due to ulnar nerve compression, which I attributed to an awkward sleeping posture. I wonder if a similar issue is occurring now, yet I find a lack of information on this matter online. I’m left wondering: when should I seek medical attention? Previously, I invested a significant amount of money to consult a doctor regarding my nerve issues who simply advised me to avoid sleeping on my arms and suggested using a brace from Amazon if I couldn't change my habits. Eventually, that condition resolved on its own. To provide additional background: I was diagnosed with hypertension at the age of 13 and currently manage it with 10mg of amlodipine. My height is approximately 170 cm and my weight is around 58 kg (5'7" and 130 lbs). On average, I walk around 6 to 8 kilometers (3 to 5 miles) each day.

AgingFamily MedicineInternal Medicine

Answers (1)

Cony

6/19/2025, 10:30:59 AM

OpenHealth AI

Persistent numbness in the outer thigh, especially after a long travel period, can result from various factors, including nerve compression, blood flow issues, or muscle strain. Your history of similar symptoms suggests it may be related to nerve compression, likely due to your travel posture.

Explanation: When you sit for extended periods, especially in a cramped position, nerves can become compressed, leading to sensations like numbness or tingling. While this type of numbness can resolve on its own, it's important to monitor its progression and associated symptoms, particularly since it has lasted for three days without improvement.

Next Steps:

  1. Posture and Movement: Focus on improving your sitting posture and incorporate regular movement during long journeys (e.g., stand, stretch, or walk every hour, if possible).

  2. Manage Numbness: Try gentle stretching exercises for your hips and thighs. You might also apply warmth to the area, which can help promote blood flow and relieve discomfort.

  3. Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of any changes. Note if the numbness spreads, if you develop weakness, or if you experience pain or changes in bladder/bowel function.

  4. Rest and Elevation: Elevate your leg when sitting or lying down to enhance circulation and reduce pressure on nerves.

  5. When to Seek Help: If the numbness does not improve in the next few days, worsens, or if you notice additional symptoms like weakness in the leg, it's advisable to seek medical attention. Given your history of hypertension, any sudden changes in symptoms should also be taken seriously.

Stay proactive in seeking comfort, and don’t hesitate to reach out if your symptoms escalate or you have further concerns.

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