Acute compartment syndrome of the extremities as a result of a traumatic event is a well-recognized clinical entity requiring emergent surgical decompression. Ex-ertional compartment syndrome is also well established in the literature and can be broken down into chronic, acute and acute on chronic. Chronic exertional compartment syndrome (CECS) is characterized by exercise induced compartmental pain and swelling which resolves with rest. Physical examination is usually benign after an episode. Diagnosis is usually confirmed by measuring compartment pressures before and after exercise. Progression of symptoms might indicate the development of an acute exertional compartment syndrome, an uncommon but potentially life and limb threatening condition.
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