Experience with Exertional Compartment Syndrome?

[ingvarietyshow]

I was an avid runner for 9 months straight, until one day I started getting pain on my calves mid-run, then it would happen within a few blocks into my run, then I couldn't get halfway down the block without pain. The pain traveled to both of my feet. I drank water, stretched and made sure I took vitamins. My shoes were fitted specifically for my gait and low arches. I rested regularly.

It got to the point that I had to see a sports medicine doctor. Three possibilities given to me were stress fracture, shin splints or Exertional Compartment Syndrome. I received an X-ray and MRI which ruled out the fractures. Shin splints were ruled out as I took 2 months off from running or any other high-impact exercise. Now the doctor has recommended physical therapy for 8 weeks. He told me Exertional Compartment Syndrome would most likely require surgery.

Now, given my issue, I truly feel like PT is going to be a waste of time and money. The pain is excrutiating. I feel like I will have to opt for surgery.

I wanted to find out if anyone here has dealt with (chronic) Exertional Compartment Syndrome, and if they ever had surgery and were able to exercise again.

Thank you in advance!

[USAF-Larry]

Very interesting, @ingvarietyshow. I had never heard of Exertional Compartment Sydrome, so I went to the Mayo Clinic site to look it up.  Their summary of the syndrome sounds just like your doctor advised you:

Chronic exertional compartment syndrome is an exercise-induced muscle and nerve condition that causes pain, swelling and sometimes disability in the affected muscles of your legs or arms. Anyone can develop the condition, but it's more common in athletes who participate in activities that involve repetitive impact, such as running.

Chronic exertional compartment syndrome may respond to non-operative treatment and activity modification. If non-operative treatment doesn't help, your doctor might recommend surgery. Surgery is successful for many people, and might allow you to return to your sport.  (http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/chronic-exertional-compartment-syndrome/home/ovc-20182...)

Please keep us advised how your recovery goes.

[ingvarietyshow]

Hi, @USAF-Larry. Thank you for responding. I've done research and have endured enough pain to conclude that surgery will be my best option.

Thanks again.