Chronic Exertional Compartment Syndrome: Insights on Management and Special Place of Botulic Toxin

Abstract

Chronic Exertional Compartment Syndrome (CECS) is a prevalent and often debilitating cause of exercise-induced pain in athletes and military personnel. It is characterized byrecurrent, reversible elevations in intracompartmental pressure (ICP) within an osteofascial envelope, leading to ischemia, pain, and neurologic symptoms. While the clinical history remains paramount, diagnostic modalities are evolving beyond traditional ICP measurement. This article synthesizes current literature, exploring novel pathophysiological theories, the growing role of non-invasive imaging, advancements in minimally invasive surgical techniques, and the ongoing debate regarding conservative management. By integrating over 15 recent references, we provide a state-of-the-art overview for clinicians and researchers.