Searching for Answers: Unresolved Nerve Pain
Age 27, height 5'4", weight 64 kg, Caucasian. I use vape pens but do not smoke, consume alcohol, or use recreational drugs. I have a history of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and hyperandrogenism (hEDS). Two weeks ago, I awoke with what I initially believed was a pinched nerve in my left hip. The sensation was a sharp, burning discomfort that radiated from my groin into the hip area, intensifying with any movement. Assuming it would mitigate on its own, I attempted to go about my day, albeit with some discomfort as I moved. However, the situation has worsened; I now experience an unusual sensation running down the front of my thigh to my knee, akin to an eerie "ants crawling" feeling in my knee. Additionally, the lower right side of my back has begun to ache, likely a result of compensating for the pain. Lifting my leg exacerbates the discomfort in my hip, while rotational movements seem to be less painful. Bending my knee, however, does not cause any pain. I've also observed a peculiar mental hesitation when lifting my leg, almost as if my brain signals for me to stop, leading to slow or sometimes nonexistent movement. Walking has also become tricky; if I shift my weight improperly, my leg tends to give way—not due to real weakness but possibly as a protective response, causing agonizing pain deep within the hip. At times, pain may occur even while stationary, but it can also be triggered by specific positions. Lately, I've seen some swelling around my left knee after increased movement. This ongoing issue has severely disrupted my ability to sleep, work, and even prepare meals. Additionally, the medications prescribed—including cocodamol, amitriptyline (at varying doses of 10-20 mg daily), and dihydrocodeine (as needed)—have not alleviated the pain. Frustratingly, doctors appear skeptical, suggesting that I seek stronger opioids. However, I am not asking for increased strength; I simply require a more suitable treatment for the pain I am enduring. The only action taken by my GP and emergency services was an x-ray that yielded no abnormalities, followed by a referral to physiotherapy, which has a waiting list until February. I have been referred to approximately six different practitioners, each directing me to someone else for assistance. As a self-employed individual unable to earn at the moment, I feel this is my last chance to find insight into my condition. I suspect the problem may originate from a muscle spasm affecting the nerves, but I would greatly appreciate any additional perspectives on this matter.
Answers (1)
12/16/2025, 2:20:51 PM
OpenHealth AI
I'm sorry to hear about the persistent pain and the frustration you've been experiencing. It sounds like you're dealing with a challenging situation, especially given the impact it's had on your daily activities and overall well-being. While I cannot provide a diagnosis, I can offer some insights and suggestions that may help with your symptoms.
Main Points:
- Possible Causes: Your symptoms may be related to nerve irritation or muscle spasms, which can occur in conjunction with conditions like hEDS or PCOS.
- Immediate Actions: Focus on managing your pain and discomfort through self-care strategies while waiting for further evaluation and treatment.
Explanation:
Your description of sharp, burning pain radiating from your groin to your hip, along with the "ants crawling" sensation in your thigh and knee, could indicate some form of nerve involvement, possibly due to a muscle spasm or fascial tension in the hip area. The fact that movements exacerbate the pain but certain positions do not suggests that the underlying issue may indeed be related to nerve pathways or muscle frustration.
Prioritized Next Steps:
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Pain Management Techniques:
- Heat Therapy: Apply a warm compress to the hip and thigh area. This can help relieve muscle tension and improve blood flow.
- Gentle Stretching: Incorporate gentle stretching and mobility exercises for the hip and thigh. Focus on movements that do not exacerbate pain to promote circulation without overstressing the area.
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Consider Alternative Therapies:
- Mind-Body Techniques: Practices such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga (gentle, restorative styles) can assist in managing pain perception and improving your mental response to discomfort.
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Reassess Current Medication:
- Talk to your healthcare provider about the effectiveness of your current medications. If they are not helping, express your need for alternative pain management strategies rather than simply increasing dosages.
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Document Symptoms:
- Keep a detailed diary of your symptoms, noting when they occur, any potential triggers, and the effectiveness of any treatments or strategies you are using. This may provide useful information for your healthcare team when they assess your condition further.
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Pursue Physiotherapy:
- While you are waiting for physiotherapy, research any online resources or home exercise programs that focus on hip and nerve health. Look for gentle mobilization and strengthening techniques that are appropriate for your situation.
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Seek Further Evaluation:
- If your symptoms continue to worsen or remain unchanged, consider advocating for further evaluation. This may include seeking out pain specialists or neurologists who can offer a comprehensive assessment to explore any underlying nerve issues.
Closing Support:
It's understandable to feel overwhelmed given the multiple referrals and the impact of this pain on your life. You're taking proactive steps in seeking better management and understanding of your condition, which is commendable. Remember, you are not alone in this journey; continue to advocate for the care you need and seek support from trusted friends or family during this time. If you have further questions or concerns, feel free to reach out for additional guidance.
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