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Published on: March 13, 2012
Chronic anterior compartment syndrome and deep peroneal nerve function
G A Rowdon1, J K Richardson, P Hoffmann
1Methodist Sports Medicine Center, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA.
Summary
Athletes with chronic anterior exertional compartment syndrome (CAECS) show impaired peroneal nerve function after exercise, specifically a lack of motor amplitude potentiation. This nerve dysfunction may explain their reduced foot and ankle control.
Area of Science:
- Sports Medicine
- Neurology
- Orthopedics
Background:
- Chronic anterior exertional compartment syndrome (CAECS) is a common cause of exertional leg pain in athletes.
- The underlying pathophysiology of CAECS, particularly its effect on peripheral nerve function, remains incompletely understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate potential impairments in deep peroneal nerve function in athletes diagnosed with CAECS.
- To compare electrodiagnostic and neuromuscular findings between athletes with CAECS and healthy control athletes, both at baseline and after exercise.
Main Methods:
- A prospective, controlled study involving 10 athletes with CAECS and 10 asymptomatic control athletes.
- Participants underwent deep peroneal nerve conduction studies (velocity and amplitude) and neuromuscular examinations before and after a repetitive dorsiflexion exercise protocol.
Main Results:
- Control athletes exhibited a significant increase in peroneal motor amplitudes postexercise, while CAECS athletes did not show this potentiation.
- Athletes with CAECS demonstrated reduced vibratory sensation compared to controls, both at baseline and after exercise.
Conclusions:
- Athletes with CAECS display an impaired postexercise response in peroneal motor amplitude and diminished vibratory sensation.
- These electrodiagnostic and sensory findings may contribute to the perceived lack of foot and ankle control experienced by athletes with CAECS.
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