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Posterior Deep Compartment Syndrome
The deep posterior compartment is a surrounded by a sheath which contains the muscles in the lower leg. Compartment syndromes arise when a muscle becomes too big for the sheath that surrounds it.
Symptoms of Posterior Compartment Syndrome
- Chronic calf pain.
- Pain in the shin when you kick, jump or go up onto your heels?
- Do the symptoms go after a period of rest only to return again when you start exercising again ?
- Pain when you pull the toes and foot downwards.
- Weakness on this movement which may cause foot drop when walking.
Causes
Compartment syndromes can be acute or chronic. Posterior deep compartment syndrome can occur as a result of:
- An impact which causes bleeding within the compartment and therefore swelling.
- A muscle tear which also causes bleeding.
- Overuse injury which also causes swelling.
Treatment
What can the athlete do?
- Rest, but try to exercise your upper body or cycle if it is not painful.
- Apply ice or cold therapy for 20 minutes at a time but not directly onto the skin. Place in a wet tea towel.
- See a sports injury professional who can advise on treatment and rehabilitation.
What can a sports injury specialist or doctor do?
- Prescribe anti-inflammatory medication e.g. ibuprofen.
- Apply sports massage techniques.
- Correct any biomechanical dysfunction with orthotic devices.
