Compartment syndrome

When to get medical advice

It's important to get medical advice if you think you have compartment syndrome.

If you think you have acute compartment syndrome go to your nearest accident and emergency (A&E) department as soon as possible.
If you think you have chronic compartment syndrome speak to your GP for advice.

Acute compartment syndrome is a medical emergency and ideally needs to be treated in hospital within a few hours to avoid permanent damage to the muscles or nerves.

Chroniccompartment syndrome is much less serious, but it'sa good ideato get your symptoms checked out and have the cause diagnosed.

Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Dec 2018

Articles for compartment syndrome

Introduction

Find out what compartment syndrome is, what the different types and symptoms are, and how it's treated.

Types of compartment syndrome

There are two main types of compartment syndrome: acute compartment syndrome and chronic (also called exertional) compartment syndrome. Acute compartment syndrome: happens suddenly, usually after

Symptoms of compartment syndrome

Acute compartment syndrome Symptoms of acute compartment syndrome usuallydevelop after an injury and get quickly worse. Symptomscan include: intense pain, especially when the muscle is stretched,

When to get medical advice

It's important to get medical advice if you think you have compartment syndrome. If you think you have acute compartment syndrome go to your nearest accident and emergency (A&E) department as s

Causes of compartment syndrome

Acute compartment syndrome Acute compartment syndrome can be caused by: abroken boneor a crush injury this is the most common cause a plaster cast or tight bandage being applied to a limbbefore it

Treatments for compartment syndrome

Acute compartment syndrome Acute compartment syndrome must be treated in hospital using asurgical procedure called an emergency fasciotomy. The doctor or surgeon makes an incision to cut open your s

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