Overview

Pathophysiology

History

Exam

Diagnosis

Treatment

Pathophysiology

Most theories of the pathophysiology CECS are based upon acute compartment syndrome. It was, and still believed by most clinicians, to be based on a relative ischemia (reduced blood flow and nutrients) to the muscles and nerves within a compartment. Some have shown an increase in muscle volume of 20% with exercise. The surrounding fascia with its minimal elasticity does not allow the compartment to swell appropriately, in turn returning the pressure back into the microcirculation, arterioles and veins. Many clinicians believe the increase in training leads to a permanent increase in muscle size with minimal room for exercise related changes. Some have suggested that there is a predisposition with fascial hypertrophy and inelasticity. Very rarely CECS has progressed into an acute compartment syndrome.