Definition

Chronic compartment syndrome (CCS) occurs when pressure builds up within the body’s muscle compartments. Compartments are made of sheets of connective tissue called fascia. These sheets are under the skin of the arms and legs. They wrap around groups of muscles, nerves, and blood vessels. When pressure builds up in the compartments, it disrupts or blocks blood flow to the muscles and nerves.

Unlike acute compartment syndrome, CCS is not an emergency. However, you should see your doctor to get treatment.

Compartment Syndrome in Lower Leg

Compartment Syndrome
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Causes

CCS is most commonly caused by intense exercise.

Risk

CCS usually occurs in people less than 30 years old. Other factors that may increase your chance of CCS include:

  • Participating in endurance sports
  • Participate in sports that involve running or jumping
  • Anabolic steroid and creatine use
  • Eccentric exercise
  • Poor biomechanics in runners

Symptoms

CCS can affect the lower leg. However, it can also affect the arms, hands, feet, and buttocks. Symptoms may include:

  • Severe pain during exercise that typically goes away an hour after stopping
  • Pain on both sides of the body, such as in both legs
  • Fullness or tightness in the muscle
  • Tender, aching muscles
  • Muscle weakness
  • Numbness, tingling
  • In severe cases, foot drop—a foot slaps hard on the ground when running

Diagnosis

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done.

  • Slit catheter or tonometer can measure compartment pressure.
  • Range-of-motion stretches can assess the damage.
  • Imaging tests to evaluate bodily structures may include:

Treatment

Talk with your doctor about the best treatment plan for you. Treatment options include the following:

Surgery

Surgery, called fasciotomy, is the main treatment for CCS. This is done to open the compartment and relieve pressure. A long cut will be made into the fascia to open the tissue and relieve pressure.

It can take up to 3 months to recover. After surgery, you will need physical therapy.

Nonsurgical approaches

If you are only had CCS for a short time or you decide not to have surgery, your doctor may recommend that you:

  • Stop the activity that is causing CCS and rest.
  • Change your training routine.
  • Do physical therapy.
  • Take anti-inflammatory medications or muscle relaxants.
  • Custom made orthotics.

Prevention

To help reduce your chance of CCS:

  • Avoid overexercising
  • Change your training routine
  • Avoid anabolic steroids and creatine