This link shows a diagram of the two major nerves coming out into the thigh.

http://www.netterimages.com/product/...7875/8-283.htm

The nerves are shown in yellow.

The red area shows meralgia paresthetica distribution... along the top of the thigh and outer edge. This is a sensory nerve only.

The blue area shows the femoral nerve that distributes to the inner thigh and top of the thigh.

Both of these nerves go thru the abdomen and exit under the inguinal ligament. It can get compressed there from surgery, pregnancy, trauma, too tight of clothing esp jeans and belts.

Compression can also occur at the spinal level, in the back.
Have you tried an ice treatment on your lumbar area? 20 minutes only. If it works it suggests that you have compression there. If ice makes it worse, then that suggests you may have RSD (now called CRPS)...and that is a serious neuropathy.

Usually inflamed nerves from compressions respond to cold treatments.

In any case you will have to see a doctor, for other treatments, depending on what your problem really is. Lidoderm patches help some MP patients (as they did work well for me years ago and gave me a remission). Some doctors do injections into the epidural space of the spine, or other nerve blocks for RSD.

This is our RSD forum:
http://www.netterimages.com/product/...7875/8-283.htm