Anterior Compartment Syndrome

Anterior compartment syndrome, also known as anterior shin splints or anterior shin pain, is a condition that can affect runners and athletes. It primarily involves the anterior (front) compartment of the lower leg, which contains the muscles responsible for dorsiflexing the foot (lifting the toes toward the shin) and extending the ankle.

Pain and Discomfort: Runners with anterior compartment syndrome experience pain and discomfort in the front of the lower leg, typically along the shinbone (tibia). This pain is often described as a dull ache or tightness during or after running.

Causes: The exact cause of anterior compartment syndrome is not always clear, but it is often attributed to overuse or repetitive stress on the muscles and fascia in the anterior compartment. This can result from activities like running, particularly when there is a sudden increase in training intensity or duration.

Symptoms: Common symptoms include pain, tenderness, and swelling in the anterior lower leg. The pain tends to worsen with physical activity, especially running, and may subside with rest.

Diagnosis: Diagnosis is typically made through a combination of physical examination and imaging studies like ultrasound or MRI. In some cases, doctors may perform compartment pressure testing to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment: Treatment options for anterior compartment syndrome may include:

Rest: Taking a break from running or other high-impact activities to allow the affected muscles to heal.

Physical Therapy: Exercises and stretches can help improve muscle flexibility and strength while reducing pain.

Orthotics: Custom orthotic insoles may be recommended to provide better support and alignment of the feet and ankles.

Anti-inflammatory Medications: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help reduce pain and inflammation.

In severe cases or when conservative treatments fail, surgical intervention may be necessary. Fasciotomy is a surgical procedure in which the fascia (tissue surrounding the muscle compartment) is partially cut to relieve pressure and reduce symptoms.

How to treat anterior compartment syndrome?

Gait retraining for anterior compartment syndrome in runners

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