Acute Compartment Syndrome
- Description / Cause
- Increased pressure in compartment space
- Trauma
- Hematoma
- Burns
- Frostbite
- Fractures
- Constrictive cast or dressing
- Calcific tendinitis of the distal bicep
- Prevalence / Risk factors
- Acute compartment syndrome is the most common compartment syndrome
- About 75% of compartment syndrome is caused by a fracture
- Anabolic steriods
- Signs / Symptoms
- Acute onset – a few hours or days
- New and persistent deep ache
- Pain greater than expected
- Numbness, pins and needles, or electricity pain
- Swelling, tightness, and bruising
- Objective / Special Test
- Physical exam by PCP
- Treatment / Interventions
- Acute compartment syndrome requires immediate treatment to avoid damage to the soft tissue
- Compressive dressing or cast be removed
- Surgical incision down the fascia to reduce pressure
- Avoid activities that caused it
References
- Garayoa S. et al. Acute compartment syndromes of the forearm caused by calcific tendinitis of the distal biceps. Orthopaedic Surgery and Traumatology. Springer-Veriag 2010.
Acknowledgements:
David Funk, Student Physical Therapist at A.T. Still University
Ethan Hunke, Student Physical Therapist at A.T. Still University
Morgan Johnson, Student Physical Therapist at A.T. Still University
Ed Nheiu, Student Physical Therapist at A.T. Still University
Lindsay Walczak, Student Physical Therapist at A.T. Still University
Last edited: July 13, 2015