Should I get a nerve conduction test for a tingling sensation in my upper left leg when walking, given my sedentary job and relatively active lifestyle, including weekly basketball games and daily 1-mile walks?

Evaluation and Management of Upper Left Leg Tingling During Walking

You should consult with a healthcare provider for evaluation of your upper left leg tingling, as it may indicate nerve compression that could be addressed with conservative measures before considering a nerve conduction test.

Initial Assessment

The tingling sensation you're experiencing in your upper left leg during walking could be related to several conditions:

1. Nerve compression: Most likely meralgia paresthetica (compression of the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve)
2. Vascular issues: Reduced blood flow during activity
3. Musculoskeletal problems: Muscle tightness or imbalance from prolonged sitting

Key Considerations

• Duration: One week is relatively short - many nerve-related symptoms resolve with conservative management
• Occupation factors: Prolonged sitting at work is a significant risk factor for nerve compression
• Activity level: Your current activity (basketball once weekly, daily walks) is positive but may not fully counteract prolonged sitting

Recommended Approach

Step 1: Conservative Management (Try for 2-4 weeks)

• Modify sitting posture: Ensure proper ergonomics at work, avoid crossing legs
• Increase movement breaks: Stand up every 30-45 minutes during workday
• Stretching routine: Focus on hip flexors, piriformis, and hamstrings
• Proper footwear: Ensure appropriate support during all activities 1

Step 2: If Symptoms Persist or Worsen

• Medical evaluation: See your primary care provider for a thorough neurological examination
• Physical assessment: Evaluation should include testing for:
  • Sensory changes (numbness, tingling)
  • Muscle strength
  • Reflexes
  • Gait analysis 1

Step 3: Diagnostic Testing (If Indicated)

A nerve conduction test would be appropriate if:

• Symptoms persist beyond 4-6 weeks despite conservative measures
• Symptoms worsen or spread to other areas
• You develop weakness or significant functional limitations 2

Important Considerations

Warning Signs That Require Prompt Evaluation

• Development of weakness in the leg
• Symptoms that spread to both legs
• Bladder or bowel dysfunction
• Symptoms that occur at rest (not just with walking)
• Severe pain accompanying the tingling 1, 2

Exercise Modifications

While maintaining activity is important, consider:

• Temporarily reducing high-impact activities like basketball
• Incorporating more non-weight-bearing exercises (swimming, stationary cycling)
• Ensuring proper warm-up and cool-down periods 1

Conclusion

The tingling in your upper left leg while walking is likely related to nerve irritation from prolonged sitting. Most cases respond well to conservative measures including posture modification, regular movement breaks, and targeted stretching. A nerve conduction test is generally not needed as a first-line approach but may be appropriate if symptoms persist or worsen despite conservative management 2, 3.