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 skin and fascia surrounding the muscles, to immediately relieve the pressure inside the muscle compartment.

The wound will usually be closed a few days later. Occasionally, a skin graft may be required to cover the wound.

Chronic compartment syndrome

Chronic compartment syndrome isn'tusually dangerous and can sometimes be relieved by stopping the exercise that triggers itand switching to aless strenuous activity.

Physiotherapy , shoe inserts (orthotics)and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicines may help speak to your GP about this.

Surgery(see above) will only be considered if your symptoms persist despite the above measures. In these cases you'll go on a waiting list, as chronic compartment syndrome isn't a medical emergency.