“Compartment Syndrome” (CS) is a relatively common muscular injury, particularly in professional and recreational athletes. CS occurs when pressure builds within an injured muscle inside a specific compartment. A “compartment” (of a limb) refers to a conglomerate of muscle, nerve tissue and blood supply that are encased within a tough tissue called “fascia”. Following a traumatic or repetitive injury to a muscle, swelling or bleeding can occur. This swelling and/or bleeding can in turn lead to a rapid increase in pressure within a compartment, cutting off oxygenated blood flow and endangering the safety of the tissue within the compartment. This is due to the fact that the fascia comprising the compartment walls does not stretch much. If left unchecked, there is the potential of permanent damage of the muscle, vascular and nerve supply in the affected compartment. CS most notably results in extreme pain and possibly compromised function of the affected muscle and associated joint(s).
CS is classified as either “acute” or “chronic”. Acute CS is considered a medical emergency and surgery is often required in order to prevent the possibility of permanent damage. Acute CS is usually the result of a direct and significant trauma to a limb. Chronic CS on the other hand is the result of a repetitive motion or activity (eg. kicking) that can result in injury to a muscle. Chronic CS can be managed conservatively and is not considered a medical emergency. For both Acute and Chronic CS, aside from pain, the affected area may look swollen/expanded or discoloured, be painful to the touch (self or other) and be accompanied by altered sensation (such as pins and needles or numbness).
If you feel that you may be suffering from CS, please contact our office today to book an assessment with one of our amazing treatment staff!
Author: Dr. Paolo De Ciantis, BSc.(Hons.), M.Sc., D.C.