At Risk for Compartment Syndrome

Within the arms and legs, sheets of thick tissue called fascia separate groups of muscles. These sheets of tissue create a confined space, called a compartment. Compartment syndrome occurs when a muscle swells too much within this space. Fascia does not stretch, so it can’t expand. As the muscle swells, it's squeezed tighter and tighter. This slows or stops blood flow in the muscle. It also can injure nerve function. Long-term damage can result. In severe cases, the muscle dies. This may result in amputation.

Swelling that leads to compartment syndrome is most often due to injury. This may be from an accident or other trauma, most often one with a lot of force and damage. Repeated, high-intensity exercise can also sometimes lead to compartment syndrome.

If compartment syndrome is suspected, a health care provider can measure the pressure within a compartment. A needle is put into the affected area. The needle is attached to a pressure meter. Pressure readings are then taken. If compartment pressure readings become too high, blood flow and nutrient supply to the tissue may be compromised. If your provider diagnoses compartment syndrome, emergency surgery is often needed to help relieve it before damage becomes permanent.

Due to your injury, you must watch for symptoms of compartment syndrome (see below). Compartment syndrome is a dangerous condition. It can cause death of the muscle in as little as a few hours. Call your provider and get treatment right away if you have any of the symptoms listed below.