Compartment Syndrome is an increased pressure in one of the body parts where there are muscles and nerves. Generally, it occurs in the leg or arm in the form of
- Acute Pain
- Chronic Pain
Acute Compartment Syndrome
In case of acute compartment syndrome, which happens after a disturbing and shocking car crash, causes an extreme high pressure in the section which results in inadequate supply of blood to the nerves and muscles. Well, it is a medical emergency which requires surgery in order to correct the problem. If untreated or neglected, it may lead to permanent nerve and muscle damage which in future results lack of function in the legs.
Chronic Exertional Compartment Syndrome
It is an induced condition in which the stress and strain in the muscles increases to high levels mainly during the exercises. It creates a decline in blood flow to the affected areas which leads to a deprivation of oxygen to the muscles. In this situation, the signs are a feeling of a severe tightness in the muscles with a burning sensation when the exercise is continued. Usually, this type of compartment syndrome occurs in sports athletes who always on toes to participate in sports like running.
When does compartment syndrome arise?
Compartment syndrome builds up mainly when the bleeding or swelling takes place in the part as the fascia does not widen or extend and it increases the stress on the nerves, capillaries and even muscles. The flow of blood is disrupted to the nerve cells and muscles. Besides this, lack of supply of oxygen and nutrients to the muscles and nerves can damage it. Therefore, treatment is recommended as soon as possible as it may spread to other parts of the body like arms, feet, hands and buttocks making normal life problematic and stressful.
To get relief, surgery is recommended which is designed to open the fascia in order to provide more space for the muscles to swell.
