What is compartment syndrome?

There are many injuries that someone may suffer in an auto accident. Compartment syndrome is one of them.

Compartment syndrome can be very painful. It involves a buildup of swelling and pressure in the muscles of a person’s arms and legs. This buildup of pressure can affect circulation to those affected body parts leading to a deprivation of oxygen and other essential nutrients your muscles and nerves need to survive.

Which body parts are most apt to be affected by compartment syndrome?

The body parts most commonly affected by compartment syndrome are a person’s forearms and lower legs; however, their upper arms and legs can be impacted as well. Swelling and pressure along a person’s buttocks, feet, thighs may also occur.

What symptoms do compartment syndrome patients most commonly face?

Compartment syndrome patients, in general, experience swelling resulting in blood supply to different regions of their body being cut off. Pain generally results along the portions of the body where the swelling occurs. This can give way to a decreased range of motions and permanent nerve or muscle damage.

Symptoms may vary depending on the type of compartment syndrome at patient has, including:

• Acute compartment syndrome: Generally results from a car accident in which a patient suffers a serious injury like a fractured arm or leg. Permanent damage may result if this injury goes untreated. A surgery (fasciotomy) is generally the best way doctors can relieve the pressure on the muscles.
• Chronic compartment syndrome: This is the most common of the two varieties of compartment syndrome and generally doesn’t result in a medical emergency. Patients must instead rest their muscles for the condition to dissipate. This condition is most common among athletes.

Compartment syndrome can be quite painful and cause you significant permanent harm if you don’t seek medical attention right away. Your ability to file a personal injury claim in your case may depend on various factors, including the cause of your injuries. Please continue to review our website to learn more about your legal options.