Differential Diagnosis for Right Leg Pain Radiating to Hip in Pregnancy
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Sciatica: The most common cause of leg pain radiating to the hip in pregnancy, often due to the compression of the sciatic nerve by the expanding uterus or poor posture.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Musculoskeletal strain: Pregnancy-related changes in posture and gait can lead to strain on the muscles and joints, causing pain in the leg and hip.
- Symphysis pubis dysfunction (SPD): A condition characterized by pain in the pubic symphysis and surrounding areas, which can radiate to the legs and hips.
- Varicose veins: Pregnancy increases the risk of varicose veins, which can cause leg pain and discomfort.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Deep vein thrombosis (DVT): A potentially life-threatening condition that requires prompt diagnosis and treatment. Pregnancy increases the risk of DVT due to increased blood clotting and venous stasis.
- Osteonecrosis of the femoral head: A rare but serious condition that can cause hip pain and require urgent medical attention.
- Pregnancy-related pelvic fracture: Although rare, pelvic fractures can occur in pregnancy due to osteoporosis or trauma, and require prompt diagnosis and treatment.
Rare Diagnoses
- Piriformis syndrome: A condition characterized by compression of the sciatic nerve by the piriformis muscle, which can cause leg and hip pain.
- Meralgia paresthetica: A condition characterized by compression of the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve, causing numbness, tingling, and pain in the thigh.
- Neuropathy: Certain types of neuropathy, such as diabetic neuropathy or peripheral neuropathy, can cause leg and hip pain, although these are less common in pregnancy.