Chronic compartment syndrome – Chronic compartment syndrome

Chronic Compartment Syndrome (Chronic Exertional Compartment Syndrome; Compartment Syndrome, Chronic; Compartment Syndrome, Exercise-induced; Compartment Syndrome, Recurrent; Exercise-induced Compartment Syndrome; Recurrent Compartment Syndrome; Exercise Myopathy)

Description of chronic compartment syndrome

Chronic compartment syndrome (XKS) there, the appearance of excess pressure within the muscles of the body. Muscles are bundles (their cases), which are coated with a shell of connective tissue, called fascia. The fascia covers the muscle groups, nerves and blood vessels. When pressure builds up inside these sheaths, broken or blocked blood flow to the muscles.

Unlike acute compartment syndrome, ACN is not a critical situation, but you should see your doctor, to begin treatment.

The causes of chronic compartment syndrome

CRS is most often caused by intense exercise.

Risk factors for chronic compartment syndrome

Participation in sports with high loads increases the likelihood of CRS. You will be at greater risk, If you are participating in sports, are associated with running or jumping.

Symptoms of chronic compartment syndrome

ACN most commonly affects the lower leg, but it can also affect the arms, legs and buttocks. These symptoms, except for chronic compartment syndrome, They may be caused by other diseases. If you experience any of them, should see a doctor.

• Pain on both sides of the body, eg, in both legs;
• Severe pain during exercise, which typically extends one hour after training;
• Tightness in the muscles;
• Sensitivity, muscle aches;
• Muscular weakness;
• Numbness, pricking;
• В тяжелых случаях – невозможность поднятия ног, right leg is lowered to the ground when picked up.

Diagnosis of chronic compartment syndrome

The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical examination.

• Maybe, You will need to measure the pressure inside the muscle. This can be done using a special catheter or tonometer;
• The doctor may be asked to perform in a certain range of motion, to assess the damage;
• The doctor may need to examine pictures of structures inside the body. To take pictures used:
  • MRT;
  • CT scan.

Treatment of chronic compartment syndrome

Treatment options include the following:

Operation at CRS

For the treatment operation is performed CRS, called fasciotomy. Fasciotomy to reduce pressure in case muscle and prevent it from permanent damage. The doctor makes a long incision in the fascia, to remove tissue fibers and relieve pressure. Recovery after surgery takes about three months.

Conservative treatment ACN

If you decide not to do surgery, your doctor may recommend:

• Stop activity, which causes CRS and more rest;
• Change training mode;
• Studying with a physiotherapist;
• Take anti-inflammatory drugs or muscle relaxants.

Prevention of chronic compartment syndrome

To reduce the risk of CRS, proceed as follows:

• Avoid excessive loads during training;
• Change the training mode.