Chronic exertional compartment syndrome


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Complications

By Mayo Clinic staff

Chronic exertional compartment syndrome isn't a life-threatening condition and usually doesn't cause any lasting or permanent damage if you seek appropriate treatment. However, if you continue to exercise despite pain, the repeated increases in compartment pressure can lead to permanent numbness or weakness in affected muscles.

Perhaps the worst complication of untreated chronic exertional compartment syndrome is its impact on participation in your favorite sports. The pain may prevent you from being active.

Preparing for your appointment Risk factors
References
  1. George CA, et al. Chronic exertional compartment syndrome. Clinics in Sports Medicine. 2012;31:307.
  2. Lee CH, et al. Chronic exertional compartment syndrome in adductor pollicis muscle: Case report. Journal of Hand Surgery. 2012;37A:2310.
  3. Compartment syndrome. American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=a00204. Accessed Dec. 18, 2012.
  4. Aweid O, et al. Systematic review and recommendations for intracompartmental pressure monitoring in diagnosing chronic exertional compartment syndrome of the leg. Clinical Journal of Sports Medicine. 2012;22:356.
  5. Meehan WP. Chronic exertional compartment syndrome. www.uptodate.com/index. Accessed Dec. 18, 2012.
  6. Rakel RE. Textbook of Family Medicine. 8th ed. Philadelphia, Pa.: Saunders Elsevier; 2011. http://www.mdconsult.com/das/book/body/191205553-4/0/1481/0.html#. Accessed Dec. 18, 2012.
  7. Canale ST, et al. Campbell's Operative Orthopaedics. 11th ed. Philadelphia, Pa.: Mosby Elsevier; 2008. http://www.mdconsult.com/das/book/body/208746819-4/0/1584/0.html. Accessed Dec. 18, 2012.
  8. Ringler MD, et al. MRI accurately detects chronic exertional compartment syndrome: A validation study. Skeletal Radiology. In press. Accessed Dec. 18, 2012.
  9. Laskowski ER (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. Dec. 20, 2012.
DS00789 Feb. 20, 2013

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