Compartment syndrome refers to a condition mainly in the lower part of the leg. Typically this area has bones and fascia forming compartment or casing to accommodate the muscles and various tissues. The tightness or elasticity of this compartment, or covering made of connective tissues, differs in every individual. This tightness may lead to restricted upward movement of the leg. Flexibility of the leg is compromised to a great extent. The front part of the leg also houses the tibial artery and vein.

At times due to over exertion, swelling occurs in this portion because of increased flow of blood. As the blood flow increases, this creates pressure on the fascia surrounding the casing which holds everything together. The nerve and artery feel tremendous pressure and pain in this area is felt due to this pressure. Swelling may also occur or even numbness after a while. Swelling occurs due to internal bleeding in the compartment. One may not feel anything on the big toe. This is one of the symptoms of anterior compartment syndrome. Tingling is another such symptom. If one stops activities immediately, then this feeling may vanish instantly. If it is experienced repeatedly, then one can try stretching the shin by sitting with the support of heels and feel the front part of the shin stretching.

In mild cases, massage or simple exercises help but anterior compartment syndrome can be acute as well as chronic. Treatment for mild cases typically includes rest, use of anti-inflammatory medication, elevation of the limb and decompressing the area with hands. Acupuncture is also said to have a healing effect in mild compartment syndromes. Fasciotomy is one of the most preferred treatments for severe cases. Fasciotomy is a surgical procedure in which the sheath or the covering is cut to relieve the pressure, and then it is closed again. In most cases Fasciotomy is successful.

Chronic anterior compartment syndrome occurs when the muscles are overdeveloped making the outer casing inelastic and incapable of stretching. When one is not exercising the blood vessels don’t have any pressure on them but when one is exercising, it leads to tremendous pressure and then it reaches a stage where it can no longer expand. This condition has been diagnosed in people who have high usage of creatine. Sports specialists may advise avoiding the ways of exercising which are contributing to the compartment syndrome. Style of running or the kind of shoes one is wearing may contribute negatively to it, thus avoiding these would help in preventing anterior compartment syndrome.

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