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Begins consistently after a certain time, distance or intensity of exertion after you start exercising the affected limb.Pain caused by chronic exertional compartment syndrome typically follows this pattern: Occasionally, swelling or bulging as a result of a muscle hernia.Foot drop, in severe cases, if legs are affected.Numbness or tingling in the affected limb.Aching, burning or cramping pain in a compartment of the affected limb.Chronic exertional compartment syndrome often occurs in the same compartment of an affected limb on both sides of the body, usually the lower leg. Your lower leg, for example, has four compartments. Your limbs have specific areas of muscle (compartments). Surgery is successful for many people and might allow you to return to your sport. If nonsurgical treatment doesn't help, your doctor might recommend surgery. The patient will then begin ambulation in a removable CAM boot and a 6-8 week course of physical therapy.Chronic exertional compartment syndrome may respond to nonsurgical treatment and activity modification. This allows the incisions to heal and the soft tissues inflammation to subside. How long is the recovery following exertional compartment syndrome surgery?įollowing surgical intervention the patient will be non-weight bearing for a period of 1-2 weeks. A selective fasciotomy (release) is completed on the affected compartments-this is typically dictated by location of symptoms and preoperative pressure tests. Surgical intervention involves release of the affected lower leg compartments. Does exertional compartment syndrome require surgery? Muscle imbalances may be identified and treated by our physical therapy team as proximal muscle weakness may contribute to exertional compartment syndrome. If detected early a regime of rest and gentle therapy will be attempted. Treatment will vary according to the nature of the symptoms. How is exertional compartment syndrome treated without Surgery? These are typically not performed by our physicians and would require testing to be done prior to an office visit. The golden standard for assessment of compartment testing includes compartment pressure measurements done immediately after exercise (while symptoms are present). Often MRI or CT scan would be used to rule out a stress fracture. If exertional compartment syndrome is suspected further testing may be required. Our physicians will perform an extensive physical examination including x-rays. How is exertional compartment syndrome diagnosed? In more significant cases decreased nerve and motor function may be experienced as they become compromised due to limited oxygen delivery. Pain is usually experienced when the compartment pressure rises within the leg interfering with the normal muscle function. What are the symptoms of exertional compartment syndrome? Exertional compartment syndrome happens when exercise causes the pressures to rise within the compartments of the lower leg limiting blood flow to the muscles and creating a cramping, painful sensation. This is different from acute compartment syndrome which is typically directly related to significant trauma in the lower leg. Exertional compartment syndrome is an overuse phenomenon that creates pain and limited function in the lower leg.
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