Houston, We Have a Problem . . .

. . . or maybe not. I finally have a diagnosis on my thigh pain: meralgia paresthetica. Not that I'm happy about the diagnosis, but at least I now know what it is and what I can do to alleviate the pain, which at times is quite bad. In fact, here are the most common symptoms, all of which I have in spades:

• Constant pain on the outer side of the thigh, extending from hip to knee


• Burning, numbness, or tingling in the thigh


• Bouts of shooting pain, often likened to being stung repeatedly by bees


• Hypersensitivity to touch and heat. Warm water from the shower causes stinging and burning sensation.


• Occasionally, aching in the groin area or across the buttocks


• Usually more sensitive to light touch than to firm pressure


• Aggravated by walking and standing, or prolonged sitting

So I am scheduled to start physical therapy, and I need to lose weight (no surprise there) and start walking again. The only problem is, walking is painful. But I'll do it anyway. Anything to get rid of the constant pain.

On a high note, I bought some hanging plants today, and now I'm going outside to hang them from the beam I installed on the front deck, just for that purpose!