Burning pain can occur in or be referred to any portion of the anatomy. The most reported types of burning pain are Central Pain Syndrome, Meralgia, Mononeuritis, Paget’s Disease of the Scrotum, Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy Syndrome and St. Anthony’s Fire.

Central Pain Syndrome is a neurological condition caused by injury or dysfunction of the central nervous system. The syndrome is caused by stroke, trauma, tumor, multiple sclerosis, epilepsy or Parkinson’s disease. The pain can affect a large portion of the body or be restricted to smaller areas such as the hands or feet. The pain varies from constant to intermittent or as intense pain lasting only moments.

While the disorder is not fatal, the pain can be disabling and the suffering severe. Meralgia is a neurological disorder affecting the lateral cutaneous nerve of the thigh. The disorder is typically caused by compression of the nerve that runs in front of and to the upper tip of the hipbone.

Pain can be moderate to severe and usually lasts 4 to 6 weeks or sometimes much longer.

Patient’s Question:
“I have developed an intense burning pain in my upper right thigh that spreads across my buttocks. What is going on?”
Answer:
“Jean’s Disease” is a term sometimes used for this condition. Causes could include wearing restrictive clothing such as tight low rider jeans, a girdle or a tight belt. Weight gain can put pressure on the affected nerve as can wearing a heavy tool belt. Loose clothing, restriction of exercise and muscle relaxants is the first course of treatment.

Patient’s Question:
“I have Central Pain Syndrome and I find myself constantly afraid because I never know when the burning sensation in my hands will suddenly become intolerable.”
Answer:
Talk with your doctor about Tricyclic antidepressants such as nortriptyline or anticonvulsants such as neurontin (gabapentin). An activity that takes your mind off your disorder may reduce stress levels which appear to reduce pain.

Mononeuritis, Paget’s Disease of the Scrotum, Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy Syndrome and St. Anthony’s Fire are less commonly reported types of burning pain and have many different causes and treatments.