What is Chronic Compartment Syndrome?
Muscles in the body are divided into various compartments. Symptoms occur during exercise, as our muscles may expand slightly but the surrounding layer cannot. This can cause an increase in pressure leading to symptoms. Discomfort usually passes within minutes of stopping the activity. CCS usually affects the legs, but can develop in the arms.
Symptoms include;
- Pain
- Tingling
- Swelling
- Tense feeling muscles
- Sometimes weakness
There are often no signs of this condition when patients are examined as symptoms resolve fairly quickly after exercise. Therefore, it is advised that patients must be examined while exercising.
Diagnosis
Pressure in the muscles’ compartment is tested using a needle. You will then be asked to exercise until symptoms re-appear and the pressure will be taken again.
The whole appointment will last around 30 minutes.
Step 1
The consultant, Professor Lee, will clean the area with swabs. He will then administer a local anaesthetic injection to numb the area. Using specialised equipment, the pressure in the muscle compartment will be measured by inserting a needle into the affected area.
Step 2
Once the pressure has been recorded, Professor Lee will remove the needle, clean the area and cover the injection site with a plaster.
Step 3
You will then be asked to exercise until the pain is triggered.
The procedure will be repeated and the pressure in the compartment will be re-recorded after exercise.
For more information on this cutting-edge procedure, or to book an appointment, call our friendly helpful team on 0207 563 1234, or complete an enquiry form.
Treatment prices start from £2850.
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