What Is Compartment Syndrome?

Compartment syndrome is a medical condition where pressure builds up around the muscles and can cause muscle and nerve injury. However, with proper treatment, complications from compartment syndrome can be minimized.

Definition and Causes of Compartment Syndrome

Compartment syndrome is defined as excessive pressure on muscle tissues. It can be painful and cause harmful complications.

What are compartments in the human body?

Compartment is a medical term. It’s the groups of muscle tissue in the arms and legs. These compartments are separated by fascia. Fascia tissue encases the groups of muscles, providing support and structure. Fascia tissue exists throughout the body, supporting organs, nerves, joints, muscles, and other critical parts.

Understanding compartment syndrome

Usually, the fascia tissue that groups the muscles of the arms and legs is flexible. It moves with the muscles and the rest of the body. With compartment syndrome, these tissues become rigid and inflexible. In turn, there is an unusual amount of pressure placed on the muscles and nerves in the compartment, and movement may be restricted. Symptoms and secondary medical problems can develop.

What causes compartment syndrome?

Compartment syndrome is usually the result of swelling and bleeding. It can result from:

Injury
Surgery
Exercise
Cuts in the muscles
Crushing injury
Broken bones
Prolonged pressure on a body part

Typically, vigorous or frequent exercise is required for compartment syndrome to occur because of physical activity. It is more common in people who experience bone fractures. The Cleveland Clinic reports that as many as 10% of people who have a broken tibia will develop compartment syndrome. However, among the general population, it is uncommon, with only one in every 10,000 people having the condition each year, including from all causes.

Symptoms and Early Warning Signs

The compartment syndrome signs and symptoms may be subtle or severe. A person may experience pain or cramping during exercise.

Severe pain may be the first symptom, with the pain disproportionate to the underlying injury.

Continued muscle use will likely increase pain or a feeling of bulging or stiff muscles. The person may experience tightness, reduced mobility, numbness, or burning. Paralysis is a serious complication that may be a sign of permanent injury.

Compartment syndrome may occur in the:

Legs
Arms
Hands
Wrists
Stomach
Feet
Buttocks

Why Compartment Syndrome is a Medical Emergency

Compartment syndrome is a medical emergency because it can restrict blood flow and cause nerve damage and harm that may be irreversible.

Acute and chronic

Compartment syndrome may be acute or chronic. Acute compartment syndrome occurs suddenly, typically from injury or surgery. It is a medical emergency because of its potential to cause serious medical complications.

Complications may include:

Pain
Muscle damage
Nerve damage
Paralysis
Death

When it is chronic, it develops gradually over time. Pain is usually the most significant symptom of chronic compartment syndrome. It is less likely to be a medical emergency than when the condition is acute.

Necrosis, tissue death

Not only can compartment syndrome be painful, but it can also result in tissue death. With too much pressure on the muscles and nerves, tissue may not receive the oxygen and nutrients that it needs. The result may be permanent tissue death.

Compartment Syndrome in the Workplace

Compartment syndrome can develop because of workplace activity. It can be the result of an injury that occurs suddenly. Falling, crushing injuries, or being struck by an object can all be the underlying cause of the condition. Repetitive tasks in the workplace, or a physically demanding job in general, can contribute to the development of symptoms.

Treatment Options for Compartment Syndrome

The appropriate treatment for compartment syndrome depends on its severity. Surgery, through a procedure called a fasciotomy, may be necessary to relieve pressure. A small cut through the fascia can open it and give muscles more room. Surgeons may remove dead tissue and watch for the return of blood flow. The prognosis may depend on the location of the procedure. An accurate diagnosis is important for surgery to be effective. A skin graft may be required later, along with compression treatments.

A chronic condition may improve with rest and behavior modification. Low-impact activities and varying activity may lessen symptoms. An evaluation of running gait and heel strike may change impact on the body. Different footwear or a change in exercise surface may be appropriate.

Long-Term Effects and Recovery Process

The long-term effects and recovery process depend on the severity of the condition, prompt and appropriate medical care, and time to heal. In severe cases, nerve damage may result in permanent numbness, tingling, or mobility impairment. Amputation is a rare but possible medical complication.

Someone who is hurt at work may need significant time to recover. Whether the condition is acute or chronic, compartment syndrome typically requires rest and time to reduce swelling.

There may be a dispute about when a person can safely return to work, disagreements about task modification, and added support that may be appropriate to provide the person with a healthy working environment.

These are some of the issues that may arise during the recovery process for compartment syndrome. An injured worker should consider representation from an experienced Jacksonville workers’ compensation lawyer.

Contact an Experienced Jacksonville Workers’ Compensation Lawyer

If you have experienced compartment syndrome as the result of a workplace injury or repetitive activity, we invite you to contact Horton & Mendez Injury Attorneys. We are experienced Jacksonville workers’ compensation lawyers.

You may deserve workers’ compensation, and the benefits you receive may cover your medical care, including surgery, medical supplies, and prescription medication. You may qualify to receive replacement income if you are unable to work.

A Jacksonville workers’ compensation lawyer can assist with your case. We can address any issues and disputes that arise in making sure you get the benefits that you deserve.