Chronic exertional compartment syndrome after minor injury to the lower extremity

Abstract

Since the 1950s, chronic exertional compartment syndrome of the lower leg has been thoroughly reported in the literature. The predisposing factors and pathophysiology of this condition, however, still are not fully understood. We present a case of a well-conditioned individual who developed a chronic exertional compartment syndrome of the left lower leg anterior compartment after a direct blow injury during a softball game. Trauma is not routinely implicated as a risk factor for chronic compartment syndrome, and the literature on this topic is scarce. We suggest that trauma, even low-velocity trauma, may precipitate a chronic exertional compartment syndrome. We review the literature regarding chronic exertional compartment syndromes preceded by trauma and offer explanations regarding the mechanisms by which a traumatic event may induce a chronic compartment syndrome.