Ilioinguinal neuralgia is a chronic pain condition caused by irritation or entrapment of the ilioinguinal nerve, a small nerve that runs from the lower spine through the abdominal wall, groin, and into the upper inner thigh. This nerve provides sensation to the lower abdomen, groin, and sometimes the genitals.
When irritated, the ilioinguinal nerve can produce sharp, burning, or aching pain in the lower abdominal region or groin.
Typical symptoms include:
Common causes include surgical trauma or scar tissue, nerve entrapment in the abdominal muscles, direct injury, or occasionally spinal nerve root irritation. Because the symptoms can overlap with hernia, hip, or pelvic disorders, expert specialist assessment is essential for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
At Wessex Pain Clinic, diagnosis begins with a detailed history and examination to map the pain pattern and identify triggers such as prior surgery, movement, or pressure points.
Our consultants perform a focused examination which may involve checking for tenderness over the nerve’s course and areas of altered sensation.
In some cases, ultrasound or MRI imaging helps to rule out structural or surgical complications.
Our physiotherapy and rehabilitation focusses on gentle stretching and strengthening of the lower abdominal and hip muscles to relieve mechanical tension around the nerve. Hydrotherapy offers a supportive environment for pain-free movement.
We also work with pain psychology partners to help patients manage persistent pain, improve coping strategies, and address the anxiety or fatigue that often accompany neuropathic pain. Our multidisciplinary model ensures coordinated, whole-person care.
At Wessex Pain Clinic, we work as a team and meet regularly to discuss complex, treatment resistant or unusual cases. As such you will often receive the expertise of several pain consultants. We believe that we are one of very few pain clinics to offer this.
We may prescribe:
Medication plans are regularly reviewed to optimise benefit and reduce side effects.
Our consultants perform ultrasound-guided ilioinguinal nerve blocks, combining local anaesthetic and corticosteroid to reduce inflammation and provide pain relief.
For chronic or recurrent cases, radiofrequency neuromodulation may offer longer-lasting results by gently deactivating the overactive pain fibres.
In more complex cases involving multiple nerves, we may also consider iliohypogastric or genitofemoral nerve blocks, tailored to your individual pattern of pain.
Whilst usually not required, we work alongside specialist surgeons experienced in nerve release procedures.
Our friendly team is on hand to support you every step of the way. Please get in touch at any time.
