Question
I am a 21 year old college student and a cross country runner. I have had left shin/calf pain for the past 3 years. Was misdiagnosed as shin splints for years. None of the treatments for shin splints worked and continued to get worse as i ran. I have medial and lateral pain on my shin. I have had cramping and a aching pain in my calf/lateral shin. I also have tightness in my leg as well. I have had to stop running because of the pain. Sometimes walking for long periods of time can aggrevate the pain as well. I was just recently diagnosed with chronic compartment syndrome and was sent to PT. I have almost finished my PT before going back to my dr again. The PT does not seem to be helping much maybe a little. Is there any other treatment besides surgery? What is the surgery like? What is the recovery? Will I be able to run again if I get the surgery?

Answer
Dear Marie,

This Orthopedic Chicago Podiatrist located in West Loop 60661,Roscoe Village 60618, Ukranian Village 60622, Elmhurst 60126 & Bartlett 60103 says...
Before you consider surgery,I suggest another opinion. Compartment syndrome verification can a be uncomfortable, since there there is an incision involved to place the pressure measuring device. Other methods may not be as accurate. If it is compartment syndrome-then surgery involves releasing some soft tissue(fascia. The recovery will probably take 4-6 months. Times will vary on the skill of the surgeon & procedure done.
Hope this helps & Good Luck!

The Chicago Podiatrists of AnkleNFootCenters.com are specialists in orthopedics and sports medicine.
We are located in Chicago & Elmhurst

Dr George Tsatsos, Svetlana Zats, Dr Mariano Rivera, Dr Massard & Dr Kurtz
Podiatrist Chicago 60618 & 60622. Elmhurst 60126 Podiatrists
Board Certified in Foot and Ankle Surgery & Orthopedics
New South Loop Location-Chicago 60661


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