Compartment syndrome is a condition that occurs when pressure within the muscles builds to dangerous levels, which can decrease blood flow and prevent nourishment and oxygen from reaching nerve and muscle cells. This can cause serious damage and possible death if not treated promptly. There are two types of compartment syndrome: acute and chronic. Acute compartment syndrome is a medical emergency that is usually caused by a severe injury and is extremely painful. Without treatment, it can lead to permanent muscle damage. Chronic compartment syndrome, on the other hand, occurs gradually after exercising and goes away when you rest.
Compartment syndrome develops when swelling or bleeding occurs within a compartment, causing increased pressure on the capillaries, nerves, and muscles in the compartment. Because the fascia does not stretch, blood flow to muscle and nerve cells is disrupted, and without a steady supply of oxygen and nutrients, nerve and muscle cells can be damaged. Compartment syndrome can occur in any part of the body, but it is most common in the lower leg.
Symptoms of compartment syndrome can start suddenly, such as after an injury or if a bandage or plaster cast is too tight, or they can come on gradually after exercising and go away when you rest. Symptoms include severe pain, swelling, and tightness in the affected area, numbness or tingling, weakness, and pale or shiny skin. If compartment syndrome is causing the pain, immediate medical attention is required, and surgery may be necessary to relieve the pressure in the muscle[[6]](https://ww...
