Numbness and tingling on the surface of the thigh are usually symptoms of meralgia paresthetica. Meralgia paresthetica is caused by compression of the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve by the inguinal ligament. This entrapment neuropathy manifests as tingling, numbness, and abnormal sensations in the area supplied by the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve. Initial symptoms include burning pain on the outer thigh and increased skin sensitivity. Sitting, squatting, or wearing a wide belt can exacerbate the symptoms. A small percentage of meralgia paresthetica cases are caused by trauma to the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve, but most patients have no significant history of injury. During physical examination, tenderness of the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve can be found at the anterior superior iliac spine, where the inguinal ligament originates. Patients often report a burning, abnormal sensation in the nerve's distribution area. Examination may reveal sensory loss in the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve's distribution area, but there is no motor loss. Sitting, squatting, or wearing a wide belt can compress the nerve, leading to worsening symptoms. To reduce symptoms and pain, patients with meralgia paresthetica should avoid wearing tight pants or overly wide belts. Initially, common analgesics or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can be used for short-term relief. If symptoms do not improve, the next step may involve injection therapy.