Anterior compartment syndrome of the lower leg

The tibialis anterior compartment syndrome is a typical disease, which is characterized by an increase in the tissue pressure in the extensor of the lower leg. In this muscle compartment contains the tibialis anterior, extensor hallucis longus muscle and extensor digitorum longus. The trigger of the tibialis anterior syndrome traumatic causes, such as a lower leg fracture, or an exceptional overloading the muscles, such as during extended hikes or long-distance running for inexperienced users come into question.

Due to the increase in pressure in the muscle compartment, there is a compression of the anterior tibial artery and the resulting reduced blood flow (ischemia) to the muscles to muscle swelling, which leads to a further obstruction of blood flow - it creates a vicious cycle. Final stage is a muscle necrosis and, in addition, a compression of the deep peroneal nerve.

Clinically, the tibialis anterior syndrome manifests with severe pain, swelling of the front - side lower leg muscles and redness of the skin area affected. The pulse of the dorsalis pedis may be extinguished, the peroneal nerve compression may cause a tingling sensation ( paresthesia ) and numbness ( hypoesthesia ) on the dorsum of the foot. Over time, it can also lead to paralysis of the foot or toes and individual toe deformities. An early clarification is displayed if the suspicion of a tibialis anterior syndrome.

Therapeutic cleavage of the muscle fascia is immediately necessary.