Compartment Syndrome

Compartment syndrome, also called chronic compartment syndrome, is a condition that causes pain or cramps in the legs during exercise. This pain usually lessens on stopping the activity. It most often occurs in the front compartment of the lower leg. Athletes participating in sports such as running, biking, or swimming which require repetitive movements are at a greater risk of developing this condition.

In compartment syndrome, pressure builds-up within the muscles to an abnormally high level. Blood flow may then decrease causing inadequate supply of oxygen and nutrients to the nerve and muscle cells. As a result, nerve and muscle cells can get damaged.