Anterior Compartment syndrome is a serious condition that involves increased pressure in the lower leg.  It can lead to muscle and nerve damage and problems with blood flow. 

Causes of Anterior Compartment Syndrome:

There are tissues called fascia that are wrapped around groups of muscles which separate them from one another so we can move each of them individually.   Inside each layer of fascia is a space known as a compartment. Inside this compartment includes muscle tissue, nerves, and blood vessels. 

Fascia surrounds these structures and allows them to work properly. If there is swelling it will increase the pressure in that area, pressing muscles, blood vessels, and nerves.  This pressure if it is high enough, blocks blood flow to the area.  If not treated, the tissues can become permanently injured because of the lack of oxygen and blood flow. Muscles can die and the leg may actually be amputated.   So treating this condition is imperative. 

Swelling can occur from car accidents, crushing the muscles and tissue, fractures, or numerous soft tissues. Life-time athletes can get compartment syndrome from the repetitiveness of their sport.  It is very common in runners. 

Where are the most common areas in the body where Anterior Compartment Syndrome:

 Most commonly the lower leg and forearm but it can also occur in any extremity in the body. 

What are the symptoms of Anterior Compartment Syndrome?

The most common way of determining if you have compartment syndrome is severe pain that doesn’t go away when moving the affected extremity even if on pain medication!  

Here are some other symptoms of Anterior Compartment Syndrome:

• Decreased sensation
• Loss of color on the skin
• Severe pain that keeps getting worse
• Weakness in the affected area
• Severe pain when squeezing or moving the affected area
• Swollen and shiny skinHow do we manage this problem?
  
  After evaluation to make sure this condition is not serious, chiropractic along with the Graston Technique can be very effective in treating this condition.  Graston tools help get into the muscle and fascia and release the pressure and blood will begin to filter instead of pool in the area.  
  
  Chiropractic adjustments to the joint can also help with better movement and releasing the fascia.  If pain and symptoms still persist, surgery is sometimes performed to release the pressure.
  
  If surgery is required, it will consist of long cuts made to the fascia to relieve the pressure and get blood flow.  After the surgery it is important to recondition the tissues and keep blood flowing to the area and allow for proper re-growth.  Graston Technique, Cold Laser, exercises and chiropractic treatment are helpful after surgery as well.

The good news is that if you have this problem and it is managed correctly, you can go back to your daily activities without a problem.  It is hard work but the body can be restored. If you are having extremity pain, contact us at our San Francisco, CA or San Carlos, CA Office, we can help.