There was a 20 year old college junior who was complaining of leg pain in both legs when she was running. She also was feeling numbness and tingling in the legs, as well as a sense of tightness. In the past she was diagnosed with stress fractures and shin splints. Her history was consistent with exertional compartment syndrome. We obtained compartment pressure testing which showed elevation of the pressures in her legs. She subsequently underwent anterior and lateral compartment releases for exertional compartment syndrome of both her legs. She is now 3 months out from surgery and she has returned to running over 2 miles each time and is gradually advancing her distances without any signs of symptoms.
What is Compartment Syndrome?
Compartment syndrome is a painful condition that occurs when pressure within the muscles builds to dangerous levels. This pressure can decrease blood flow, which prevents nourishment and oxygen from reaching nerve and muscle cells. 
Anyone can develop chronic exertional compartment syndrome, but it’s more common in athletes who participate in sports that involve repetitive impact exercise, such as running and fast walking. With chronic compartment syndrome surgery is the most successful option for many people, allowing you — whether you’re a recreational or serious athlete — to return to your sport.
Prevention of Compartment Syndrome?
There is probably no way to prevent this condition; however, early diagnosis and treatment will help prevent many of the complications. However, following basic sports and fitness guidelines can help protect your health and safety during exercise, such as warm up before starting exercise, stop if you’re in pain, and engage in a variety of physical activities.
Persons with casts need to be made aware of the risk of swelling. They should see their health care provider or go to the emergency room if pain under the cast increases despite pain medicines and raising the area.
