Which muscle paralysis can be caused by femoral nerve injury

Femoral nerve injury usually leads to quadriceps paralysis. Femoral nerve injury may be caused by trauma, surgical complications, diabetes neuropathy, lumbar disc herniation, tumor compression and other reasons.

1. Trauma

The most common cause of femoral nerve injury is trauma, such as hip fractures, pelvic fractures, or sharp instrument injuries. This type of injury can directly cut or compress the femoral nerve, causing interruption of nerve conduction. Patients may experience muscle weakness in the front thigh, manifested as difficulty in extending the knee joint and a tendency to fall while walking. In the early stage, the degree of damage can be evaluated through neuroelectrophysiological examination, and some patients may require surgical repair of the nerves.

2. Surgical complications

Pelvic or inguinal surgery may accidentally damage the femoral nerve, especially hip replacement surgery, hernia repair surgery, etc. Pulling, compressing, or directly damaging nerves during surgery can lead to quadriceps dysfunction. When numbness and decreased muscle strength occur in the anterior thigh after surgery, the possibility of nerve damage should be considered, and timely electromyography examination should be performed to confirm.

3. diabetes neuropathy

Long term diabetes patients may have femoral neuropathy, which belongs to diabetes peripheral neuropathy. High blood sugar leads to neuromicrovascular disease and metabolic abnormalities, gradually causing nerve fiber degeneration. This type of injury usually progresses slowly, initially manifested as mild weakness in the front thigh, and may later show significant muscle atrophy. Controlling blood sugar is the key to prevention and treatment.

4. Lumbar disc herniation

Lumbar disc herniation may affect the femoral nerve root, especially when the L2-L4 nerve root is compressed. The direct compression of nerve roots by protruding intervertebral discs can lead to dysfunction in the corresponding innervation area. Patients often experience lower back pain and lower limb radiating pain in addition to quadriceps muscle weakness. Mild cases can be relieved through conservative treatment, while severe cases may require consideration of discectomy.

5. Tumor compression

Pelvic or retroperitoneal tumors may compress the femoral nerve, such as lymphoma, schwannoma, etc. During the process of tumor growth, nerves are gradually compressed, leading to progressive muscle weakness and sensory abnormalities. Imaging examinations can clarify the location and nature of tumors, and treatment requires surgical resection, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy based on the type of tumor. Patients with femoral nerve injury should avoid vigorous exercise to prevent falls and injuries. During the rehabilitation period, quadriceps isometric contraction training can be performed, combined with physical therapy to promote nerve recovery. Ensuring sufficient protein and vitamin B intake in diet can help with nerve repair. Regularly review electromyography to assess recovery, and consider orthotic assisted walking for severe functional impairment. When muscle atrophy or persistent weakness occurs, seek medical attention promptly to avoid delaying treatment.