Thigh pain while driving

[AvivaRose]

Whenever I drive more than about 15 minutes, I develop pain in my right leg along the back of my thigh.  I am not feeling this pain in my back or buttocks -- just my thigh and at times my right knee.

Can anyone tell me what this is, and what I can do to relieve the pain?

Thanks.

[opus88]

yes worth a try in the car....although must say I have one on my desk chair here as I type and its not working...but than perhaps along with a better chair it could work...I have tried several but will keep looking....
have any others found chairs that are really well suited?
I will give the lumbar cushion a go in my car, I have to travel to my doc appt in the city in Dec. and let you all know.

[bmdad]

I would purchase one of those lumbar support cushions made for vehicles that go over or wrap around the seat. I had and have sciatica from scar tissue from my back surgery hitting my nerve. Before my surgery I had a herniated disc and a few bulging discs. Bulging discs aren't as bad as the herniated but when in certain body positions they could bulge out just a tad bit more which in turn could be enough to put pressure on your nerves. While I am driving I notice my sciatica acts up worse than usual. With the lumbar pad it will keep your back slightly arched which will help keep all of your discs tucked in where they should be. I say give one a try and let us know if it helps!
Best of luck!
Brian

[opus88]

hi Aviva ..I have the same trouble with driving although mine does also involve the butt than down the one leg especially and the thigh of course.
I find if I keep adjusting the height of my seat up than down again...it helps, so therefor I believe it has to do with the lumbar support and height positioning of the seat in correlation with the hips...
if there is pressure on your lower spine its going to cause hip/leg pain no matter what you are sitting/laying on I find anyway.
good luck....maybe we need to try sitting on a cushion while driving?

[Tuckamore]

Hello AvivaRose,

Welcome to the Pain Mangement Forum. Your symptoms are a bit puzzling. I am guessing that it may be referred pain, meaning felt in one location but actually coming from another location. I know how painful this can be and I am sorry that you are experiencing such discomfort when you drive.

Even though you do not have buttock pain it may be related to your spine or a structural issue in the area. I suggest you consult with your PCP. Maybe some imaging will provide you with some answers.

Please let us know how you are doing and the results of your search.

Take Care,
Tuck