Exertional Compartment Syndrome

Normal Leg Anatomy: Anterior View

Biceps femoris tendon Patellar tendon Common peroneal nerve Insertion of sartorius muscle Tibial tuberosity

Tibia Tibialis anterior Gastrocnemius muscle muscle Deep peroneal nerve Soleus muscle Extensor digitorum longus m. Exertional Compartment Syndrome Cross Section View Superficial peroneal nerve Anterior Compartment: Peroneus longus Tibialis anterior muscle muscle Extensor digitorum longus muscle Peroneus brevis muscle Extensor hallucis Extensor hallucis longus muscle Superior extensor longus muscle retinaculum Lateral malleolus Inferior extensor Medial malleolus retinaculum Tibialis anterior tendon Peroneus tertius tendon Deep Extensor digitorum peroneal nerve brevis muscle Extensor digitorum Extensor hallucis longus tendon brevis tendon Extensor digitorum Extensor hallucis brevis tendon longus tendon

Exertional Compartment Syndrome occurs when the muscles of the lower leg, which are tightly wrapped in tissue called fascia, swell and cause pain with activity. Usually there is room in the fascia “compartment” for the muscles to function, but with this syndrome, the swollen muscle is constricted by the tight wrapping which reduces blood flow and causes pain. It can occur during activities that require repetitive movements such as running, fast walking or biking. Symptoms include pain with activity, tingling/ numbness in leg or foot and muscle tightness in the front of the leg.

Common Treatment Options • Rest. • Stretch and massage the muscles of the lower leg. • Modify activity to a sport or level of intensity that does not cause pain. • Wear cushioned orthotic inserts or shoes. • When resistant and recurrent, surgery is usually necessary to open the tight fascia. ©20010 Lippincott Williams & Wilkins | Wolters Kluwer Health ©20010 Lippincott Williams & Wilkins | Wolters Notes:

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