The intense feeling of aching pain in a limb during exertion
is a common complaint. When the
pain is easily replicated with progressively less exertion, a compartment
syndrome should be considered.
A syndrome is a group of symptoms. In chronic exertional compartment syndrome the pain may be
burning or cramping in nature along with tightness, weakness or numbness in the
affected limb. These symptoms
typically clear within 30 minutes of rest.
Although most common in the lower extremities and associated
with running, it can also affect the upper extremities.
Muscles provide the engine behind motion. They are fueled by a steady supply of
blood and stimulated into action by nerves. When injured, a muscle will swell and unless the connective
tissue that provides an envelope around a muscle expands, pressure will build
up within the muscle. The increased pressure can cause nerve damage and muscle
breakdown.
Compartment syndrome is most commonly seen in athletes under
the age of 30 who participate in sports that involve repetitive impact. Athletes who use supplements like
anabolic steroids or creatine are especially vulnerable.
Adequate warm up, hydration and resting if pain becomes
intense are all ways of avoiding this condition. Varying workouts and the mechanics involved in a particular
sport will decrease the repetitive trauma and allow for muscular recovery.
“Symptoms of chronic exertional compartment syndrome may be
relieved by decreasing the intensity and impact of training,” said Dr. Giselle
Aerni, a sports medicine physician at the University of Connecticut and team
physician for the Connecticut Sun.
“If symptoms persist, surgery may be helpful to release the fascia
surrounding the muscles to allow more room for swelling,” said Aerni.
If surgery is necessary, it should be carried out by a
physician who treats athletes and can help guide the athlete back to safe
participation in a particular sport.
