Question
Thank you in advance for your assistance.  I have a 13 year old otherwise healthy Niece who has bilateral LE compartment syndrome from a non-traumatic onset (she walked 1/2 mile in gym class & had initial onset of symptoms that night).  She had compartment testing performed which revealed elevated pressure in 3 of the 4 compartments of the lower leg.  She is now scheduled to have bilateral 4 compartment release due to persistent intermittent symptoms which are exacerbated with increased activity.  This seems rather aggressive to me (I am an Orthopaedic Physical Therapist) & have seen my share of folks with traumatic compartment syndrome.  It seems VERY unusual to me that she would develop non-traumatic bilateral LE distal compartment syndrome without come underlying diagnosis (possibly a connective tissue disorder?).  I am concerned that she will be go through the surgery without properly addressing the underlying issue & may have no relief or only temporary relief of symptoms.  Have you ever seen anything like this before?

Answer
This Chicago Podiatrist, Elmhurst Podiatrist & South Loop Podiatrist says.......

Dear Courtney,

Regarding compartment syndrome. Half a mile should not institute true compartment syndrome(which is a medical emergency and requires surgery).It is normal to have elevated pressures following exercise or irritation of the muscles (myositis) in the legs. I also agree that other possible diagnoses should be ruled out. Maybe it's just shin splints.
Go seek a second opinion and definitely postpone the surgery!

Hope This Helps

Dr George Tsatsos-
Podiatrist Chicago 60618 & Elmhurst 60126 Podiatrists
Board Certified in Foot and Ankle Surgery & Orthopedics
New South Loop Location-Chicago 60661
AnkleNFoot.com
Runnersdoc.com
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