Exercise-Induced Compartment Syndrome
Exercise-Induced Compartment Syndrome is a painful cramp caused by compression of
muscles during exercise.
The syndrome affects the compartments or confined spaces in the body partly surrounded
by long bone:
- in the arm between the elbow and wrist
- in the leg between the thigh and knee
- in the leg between the knee and ankle.
Causes of Exercise-Induced Compartment Syndrome
Exercise-Induced Compartment Syndrome occurs as the result of trauma to the forearm or
leg or overuse of the muscles and ligaments of the lower leg.
These injuries can cause tissues in the affected area to swell. In these compartments
muscles, ligaments, nerves, and blood vessels work together. Swelling cuts off circulation
of blood to ligaments, muscles, and nerves in the injured area and/or the area below it.
The compartments in the lower leg are generally most affected. This injury occurs most
often in athletes who run a great deal. It has been noted in women airline attendants
because of the continued stress on their lower legs from wearing high-heeled shoes while
walking a lot each day.
Symptoms of Exercise-Induced Compartment Syndrome
The symptoms usually occur in the area of the affected compartment of the forearm,
thigh, or leg. They can include:
- pain
- swelling
- weakness of the lower leg, ankle and/or foot
- warmth of affected area
- tenderness over the front of the shin
- tingling and/or numbness of the leg and foot
- foot drop (inability to lift the toes so that you must limp to keep the foot from
dragging)
- pain when flexing or pointing the big toe.
Diagnosis of Exercise-Induced Compartment Syndrome
To diagnose Exercise-Induced Compartment Syndrome, the doctor will review your
symptoms, examine you, and may do a needle test to measure the increased tissue pressure
within the compartment.
Treatment of Exercise-Induced Compartment Syndrome
Depending on the cause and extent of the problem, the doctor may first treat the
syndrome with ice packs to the area for 15 minutes several times a day and with
anti-inflammatory medications.
If the trauma is more severe or the injury more involved, the doctor may want
additional tests that could include an arteriogram to identify where the blood flow to the
area is stopped.
If surgery is necessary, a fasciotomy is performed. This surgery involves cutting
through the tissue surrounding the injured area and repairing the injury. As a result of
surgery, swelling will decrease, pressure will be relieved, and the circulation to the
area can be restored.
Prevention of Exercise-Induced Compartment Syndrome
You can use warm-up exercises before exercising. Gradually increase your exercise level
for any job-related activity or exercise requiring extensive use of lower arms and leg
muscles. |
