![]() ![]() Chronic Compartment SyndromeĬhronic compartment syndrome or exertional compartment syndrome develops when the when the compartment is placed under a great deal of stress. The rehabilitation goals are primarily to re-establish the normal motion, strength, proprioception, muscular endurance and functional capabilities of the involved compartment. Physical Therapy begins when the incision is healed and the pressure is normal in the compartment. Many of these incisions will eventually require a skin graft. A surgeon must perform a fasciotomy which entails making a long incision along the length of the compartment and cutting the fascia to relieve the pressure. The pressure must be relieved immediately. ![]() The lack of proper blood flow can lead to damage or death of any of the structures in the compartment. The blood flow is disrupted and can be stopped completely. The excessive pressure is exerted on the nerves, blood vessels and all soft tissue in the compartment. If excessive and abnormal bleeding or swelling occurs within the compartment and the fascia is stretched beyond its capabilities, the pressure within the compartment’s contents rises and becomes a medical emergency. ![]() A traumatic injury like a broken bone, a crush, a car accident, severe contusions, and even tightly fitting bandages can cause this acute condition. This compartment houses the muscles that control some of the motions of the foot and ankle complex. While acute compartment syndrome can occur in any area of the body, it most common affects the anterior lateral shin. The symptoms most commonly associated with compartment syndrome are intense pain, swelling, numbness or tingling in the compartment and distally, possible paralysis of the muscles, which usually indicates permanent damage to the contents of the compartment. This increase in blood flow can be caused by a serious trauma that leads to hemorrhaging, and it can also be caused by a repetitive activity involving specific muscles. If there is increased blood flow to this structure resulting in excessive pressure, it will produce the symptoms of compartment syndrome. It is able to “hold” everything in its proper location regardless of the movement or actions that occur during movement of any intensity level. The fascia does not stretch easily and has significant “binding” capabilities for all of the structures in the body. A leather-like sheath of material, fascia covers everything including muscles to provide internal stability during movements. Our bodies must maintain stability of internal structures while also supporting a range of movements. Chronic compartment syndrome can be induced by a repetitive, high impact exercise and can inhibit someone from performing an activity due to the developing symptoms. It is caused by a traumatic injury like a car wreck. Acute compartment syndrome is a medical emergency and must be treated right away to prevent permanent damage and even loss of limb. There are two kinds of compartment syndrome: acute and chronic. Proper and timely treatment can lead to full recovery. Severe high pressure in a compartment of muscles and nerves results in a decreased blood flow to the area, intense pain, swelling and decreased sensation and movement. People suffering from compartment syndrome normally feel a deep, constant pain in one part of the body (usually the leg or arms). ![]()
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