What could cause pain in both inner thighs?

Reviewed by Yoshinori Abe, MD

Internal Medicine

Pain in both inner thighs is often linked to specific conditions, including genitofemoral neuralgia (nerve irritation causing groin and inner thigh discomfort), sacroiliac joint dysfunction (which can radiate pain into the thighs), or systemic lupus erythematosus (an autoimmune disorder that may cause muscle and joint pain). Other possible causes include muscle strains, hip joint problems, or nerve compression.

Because inner thigh pain can stem from nerve, joint, muscular, or systemic causes, identifying the underlying source is essential for effective treatment. A quick, free symptom check can help you narrow down likely causes based on your specific symptoms and guide your next steps—whether that's home care, seeing a primary care provider, or consulting a specialist. Taking a few minutes now can save you time, uncertainty, and unnecessary worry.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/15/2026

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Explanation

Pain in the inner thighs can have several causes. Genitofemoral neuralgia is an uncommon condition that affects the genitofemoral nerve, which can lead to pain in the thigh area. This condition involves irritation or damage to the nerve, causing discomfort.

Another possible cause is sacroiliac joint disorder. This condition affects the joints connecting the lower spine to the pelvis, which can lead to pain radiating down the legs, including the inner thighs.

Lastly, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease that can cause widespread inflammation and pain, including in the thigh area. It affects multiple parts of the body and can lead to a variety of symptoms, including joint and muscle pain.

Each of these conditions has different treatments and management strategies, so it is important to get a proper diagnosis. You can start by taking a free symptom checker assessment to help identify what might be causing your symptoms, then follow up with a healthcare professional for a complete evaluation and treatment plan.

(References)

Lobaina M, Leslie SW, & Shanina E. (2025). Genitofemoral Neuralgia. Unknown Journal, 39163445.
Murakami E, Aizawa T, Kurosawa D, & Noguchi K. (2017). Leg symptoms associated with sacroiliac joint disorder and .... Clinical neurology and neurosurgery, 28410481.
Imabayashi K, Nakano K, Iwata S, & Tanaka Y. (2021). A case of systemic lupus erythematosus with marked .... Modern rheumatology case reports, 33783333.

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