Chronic Exertional Compartment Syndrome: Lower Limb Condition Chronic exertional compartment syndrome (CECS) is an uncommon presentation for the general population, but much more common in sports medicine.
Chronic Exertional Compartment Syndrome: Lower Limb Condition Chronic exertional compartment syndrome (CECS) is an uncommon presentation for the general population, but much more common in sports medicine. It was first described in 1956 in a professional football player. The incidence in the general population is unknown, but certain subpopulations of athletes have rates of 0.5 per 1,000 persons.
This is also challenging because many athletes or runners will change their habits to curb symptoms. Approximately 90-95 percent of cases involve the lower legs. It is also common to occur bilaterally (up to 82% of cases).
There is no gender predilection and chronic exertional compartment syndrome sometimes occurs in conjunction with other diagnosis such as medial tibial stress syndrome, vascular insufficiency and nerve entrapment. The anterior compartment is most common, followed by the deep posterior, lateral and then superficial posterior compartments. Case Question An 18 year old male collegiate soccer player presents to your training room about one week into the soccer season.
He complains of bilateral anterolateral leg pain that gets worse with running. His pain is worse with jogging for more than 5 minutes or sprinting. He described a pressure sensation in his legs and when he tries to push through the pain he starts to notice a slapping sensation of his right foot along with some mild numbness at the top of his foot.
The pain seems to be relieved with rest. His physical examination is unremarkable with normal pulses and muscular strength. His pulses were checked in passive ankle dorsiflexion and also in active ankle plantarflexion and were also normal.
If you are experiencing symptoms that may be related to chronic exertional compartment syndrome of the lower extremity, it is important to see a sports medicine physician. Early evaluation and treatment typically lead to better outcomes. Do not ignore pain or symptoms that are limiting your activity.
*This article is for educational purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider.*
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