Meralgia Paresthetica
Targeted cryoneurolysis for burning, tingling pain on the outer side of the thigh
What is it?
Meralgia paresthetica is a nerve condition caused by compression or irritation of the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve (LFCN) — a sensory nerve that passes through the pelvis and provides sensation to the skin on the outer side of the thigh.
The condition often leads to abnormal sensations or pain in one leg without affecting strength or mobility. Symptoms are usually one sided and may include:
- Burning or tingling sensation on the outer side of the thigh
- Sharp or aching pain in the same area
- Numbness or reduced sensation in the upper outer part of the leg
- Worsening with tight clothing, belts, or prolonged sitting
- Relief when lying down or bending the hip
Common Causes
Meralgia paresthetica is most often caused by compression of the LFCN where the nerve exits the pelvis. Common triggers include:
- Tight clothing, belts, or tool belts
- Weight gain or obesity
- Pregnancy
- Scar tissue after prior abdominal or pelvic surgery
- Direct trauma or repeated pressure on the hip region
How Cryoneurolysis Helps
Barcelona Cryo Center offers ultrasound guided cryoneurolysis to precisely locate and treat the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve. By applying controlled cold therapy to this superficial sensory nerve, pain signals are safely interrupted without affecting motor nerves or deeper tissues.
Key Benefits:
- Minimally invasive: Performed through a small skin puncture
- Outpatient and drug-free: No general anesthesia and no opioid therapy required
- Targeted relief: Specifically treats the LFCN without impacting surrounding structures
- Long-lasting effect: Relief can last for several months and treatment can be repeated
- Ultrasound guided: Enables precise treatment with minimal risk
Suitable Candidates
Cryoneurolysis for meralgia paresthetica may be appropriate if you:
- Have persistent burning, tingling, or numbness on the outer side of the thigh
- Have symptoms that worsen with movement, clothing, or pressure
- Have tried medications or physical therapy without lasting relief
- Prefer a non surgical, targeted treatment approach
Break Free from Lateral Thigh Nerve Pain
Meralgia paresthetica can affect daily life and limit your mobility. Cryoneurolysis offers a focused, non-destructive path to relief so you can regain comfort and freedom of movement.
Book your consultation with Barcelona Cryo Center today.
Neck, Spine & Back Pain Conditions We Treat
Cryoneurolysis may be an effective treatment for a range of nerve-related pain conditions affecting the neck and back:
Lower Back Pain
Learn MoreChronic or post-surgical lumbar pain that may involve nerve compression, muscle strain, or degenerative conditions.
Facet Joint Pain
Learn MorePain originating from the small joints between spinal vertebrae, often worsened by twisting, bending, or prolonged standing.
Occipital Neuralgia
Learn MoreStabbing or aching pain in the back of the head or upper neck, often misdiagnosed as migraines or tension headaches.
Meralgia Paresthetica
Learn MoreBurning, tingling, or numbness in the outer thigh caused by compression of the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve.
Cluneal Neuralgia (Pseudo-Sciatic Pain)
Learn MorePain in the lower back, buttock, or upper thigh caused by irritation or entrapment of the cluneal nerves—often mistaken for sciatica.
Ready to feel relief?
Explore the individual conditions above or book a consultation today to discuss whether cryoneurolysis is the right treatment for you.
Why Patients Choose Barcelona Cryo Center
Minimally Invasive
Cryoneurolysis requires only a small skin puncture. No incision or general anesthesia is needed, which means minimal tissue impact and faster recovery.
Outpatient Care
The treatment is completed during a single clinic visit. Patients come in, receive care, and return home the same day without hospital admission.
Ultrasound Guided
Real-time imaging ensures precise placement next to the target nerve and improves both safety and effectiveness.
Evidence-Based Relief
Clinical studies show that Cryoneurolysis can provide lasting relief from chronic pain while reducing the need for ongoing medication.
Specialized Pain Center
Barcelona Cryo Center focuses exclusively on chronic pain, post-surgical pain, and spastic paresis related to conditions.
Unique In Barcelona
Founded in Denmark in 2014, now in Barcelona offering ultrasound guided Cryoneurolysis, as well as advanced treatments for spasticity.
Opioid-Free Approach
We treat chronic pain without using opioids such as morphine or related drugs.
Quality Of Life Focus
Our goal is to help people with chronic or acute pain and spastic paresis live with less pain and greater independence.
Coverage
| Consultation | €100 |
| Diagnostic musculoskeletal ultrasound | From €90 |
| Ultrasound-guided diagnostic block | €250 |
| Cryoneurolysis treatment for pain | €1,500 |
| Hyaluronic acid injection – consultation + injection package | €400 |
| PRP – 3 treatment sessions | €930 |
What to Expect
- 1
Free Records Review
We review your medical history to see if our approach is a good fit for your condition
- 2
Consultation
Patients who are a good fit for treatment will meet in person to further discuss
- 3
Treatment
Ultrasound-guided Cryoneurolysis, minimally invasive
- 4
Relief
Improved mobility and quality of life; plan for next steps
Meet Your Care Team
Real clinicians, modern methods, and a patient-first approach.
Igor Filipovski
Specialist in anesthesiology
Ognen Poposki
Specialist in Rehabilitation and Pain
Sonja Zikova
Administration and Finance Manager
Frequently Asked Questions
Click to open
Is cryoneurolysis safe?
Generally considered safe with trained clinicians; side effects can include temporary numbness, bruising, soreness.
How long does pain relief last?
Varies by condition; some patients have relief for months; plans can be revisited.
Is treatment covered by insurance in Barcelona?
Coverage varies and is discussed at the consultation.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Share a brief description of what you are looking for and we will follow up to schedule your consultation.
Please do not include medical history or sensitive personal information.
Clinic Information
Address:
Pg. de la Bonanova, 91, Sarrià-Sant Gervasi, 08017 Barcelona
Phone: +34647915544
Monday: 16:00 to 20:00
Tuesday: 16:00 to 20:00
Wednesday: Closed
Thursday: 16:00 to 20:00
Friday: 16:00 to 20:00
Saturday and Sunday: By appointment