Anterior compartment syndrome

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Anterior compartment syndrome of the lower leg
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Anterior compartment syndrome of the lower leg
SpecialtyRheumatology Edit this on Wikidata

A compartment syndrome is an increased pressure within a muscular compartment[1] that compromises the circulation to the muscles.

Symptoms and signs

Diffuse tightness and tenderness over the entire belly of the tibialis anterior muscle that does not respond to elevation or

pain medication can be early warning signs and suggestive of Anterior Compartment Syndrome. Other common symptoms include excessive swelling that causes the skin to become hot, stretched and glossy. Pain, paresthesias, and tenderness in both the ischemic muscles and the region supplied by the deep common fibular nerve are exhibited by patients with this condition. Sensitivity to passive stretch and active contraction are common, and tend to increase the symptoms.[citation needed
]

Pathology

A compartment space is anatomically determined by an unyielding

peroneus tertius.[citation needed
]

This term is often mistakenly used to describe various related/proximal conditions, including Anterior

Shin Splints. It is important to distinguish between the two, as shin splints rarely causes serious health problems, while Anterior Compartment Syndrome can lead to irreversible damage.[citation needed
]

The true compartment syndrome arises due to increased pressure within the unyielding

eccentric contractions sufficient to produce postexercise soreness.[citation needed
]

Diagnosis

If these symptoms are observed/experienced it is important to contact a physician specializing in sports medicine (MD/DO), a doctor of podiatric medicine (DPM), or other qualified health care professional immediately so as to get the appropriate advice/treatment before serious damage occurs.[citation needed]

The 5 Ps of Anterior Compartment Syndrome:

  1. Pain
  2. Pallor
  3. Paresthesia
  4. Pulselessness
  5. Paralysis (If not treated)

Treatment

The only option to treat acute compartment syndrome is surgery. The procedure, called a fasciotomy, involves a surgeon cutting open the skin and the fascia to relieve the pressure. Options to treat chronic compartment syndrome include physiotherapy, shoe inserts, and anti-inflammatory medications.[citation needed]

References

  1. ISBN 978-0-683-08367-5
    . Retrieved 22 August 2010.
  • ADAM Health Illustrated Encyclopedia Article, 8/3/2004

External links

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